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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Bladder and Kidney Infection?

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The main difference between a bladder infection and a kidney infection lies in the location within the urinary tract and the severity of the infection. Both are considered urinary tract infections (UTIs), but kidney infections are generally more severe and can lead to more complicated conditions if left untreated.

Bladder Infection (Cystitis):

  • Affects the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder.
  • Most common symptoms include frequent and powerful urge to urinate, low urine output, pain or burning during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, foul-smelling urine, and abdominal pain.
  • Fever may be present, but it usually remains under 101 degrees Fahrenheit.

Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis):

  • Affects the upper urinary tract, specifically one or both kidneys.
  • In addition to the symptoms of a bladder infection, kidney infection symptoms may include fever, chills, lower back pain (sometimes severe), nausea, and vomiting.
  • Can be caused by a blockage in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or an enlarged prostate, or by bacteria from other parts of the body spreading to the kidneys.

Diagnosis and treatment for both bladder and kidney infections typically involve a review of symptoms, analysis of a urine sample, and certain blood tests. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for both types of infections, with the dosage varying based on the severity of the infection. It is essential to seek medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.

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  • What is the Difference Between Bladder and Kidney Infection?
  • Comparative Table: Bladder vs Kidney Infection

    • Comparative Table: Bladder vs Kidney Infection

    Here is a table comparing the differences between bladder infections (also known as urinary tract infections or UTIs) and kidney infections:

    Feature Bladder Infection (UTI) Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)
    Definition Infection of the lower urinary tract, including the bladder or urethra. Infection of one or both kidneys, typically caused by an untreated UTI.
    Symptoms - Painful urination
    - Frequent urge to urinate
    - Blood in urine
    - Back pain.    		 - Symptoms of a UTI
    - Back pain
    - Fever
    - Chills
    - Fatigue
    - Loss of appetite.
    Severity Generally mild, affecting 40% to 60% of people assigned female at birth at least once in their lives. More serious, can cause permanent kidney damage and lead to a life-threatening infection if left untreated.
    Causes - Diabetes
    - Not urinating after sexual activity
    - Having multiple or new sexual partners
    - Wearing synthetic materials.    		 - Obstruction of the urinary tract
    - Pregnancy
    - Weakened immune system
    - Urinary catheter drainage from the urethra
    - Spinal damage
    - Vesicoureteral reflux.
    Treatment Antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Antibiotics to kill the bacteria, with prompt medical intervention required.

    In summary, bladder infections (UTIs) are typically less severe and affect the lower urinary tract, while kidney infections are more serious and affect the kidneys. Both conditions share some symptoms but have distinct causes and treatment approaches. If you suspect you have a kidney infection instead of a UTI, it's crucial to seek expert medical attention right away, as it can be very serious and even life-threatening if left untreated.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.