What is pyelonephritis?
A person with pyelonephritis has an infection of the kidney, usually caused by bacteria. Infection of the kidney is more serious than a bladder infection or lower urinary tract infection. About 1 out of 7,000 people develop pyelonephritis each year in the US.

What are the symptoms of pyelonephritis?
Symptoms of pyelonephritis include fever, flank pain, back pain, lower abdominal pain, pain during urination, increased urinary frequency, blood in the urine, cloudy urine, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting.

How does the doctor treat pyelonephritis?
Treatment for pyelonephritis may include rest, plenty of liquids, antibiotics, narcotic pain medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and medications for bladder pain. Additional treatment for pyelonephritis may include surgery to remove a kidney stone or a collection of pus.