After retirement, Aunt Zhang likes to participate in community activities, and she is usually healthy and has a regular life. Recently, however, she began to go to the toilet frequently, accompanied by urinary urgency and a dull pain in her lower back. She thought it was a normal "problem" when she was older, maybe she drank less water and concentrated urine, or she had suffered a previous lumbar spine injury. But soon the symptoms worsened, the pain in the lower back was obvious, and even the fever was present. The doctor at the community clinic advised her to go to a major hospital for a check-up immediately, and she was diagnosed with acute pyelonephritis.
After professional treatment, Aunt Zhang's symptoms were alleviated. The doctor told her that this type of infection is usually caused by bacteria in the urinary tract, and in severe cases, it can cause kidney damage and even be life-threatening. Doctors also emphasize that prevention is far better than cure, and that daily hygiene and diet, regular urination, and regular check-ups are key. As a result, Auntie Zhang realized that small habits in life can also have a significant impact on health.
Understanding pyelonephritis: recognizing the "enemy" of kidney infections
What is pyelonephritis?
Pyelonephritis is a urinary tract infection that mainly affects the renal pelvis and renal parenchyma of the kidneys. It can be divided into two forms, acute and chronic. Acute pyelonephritis is mostly a retrograde bacterial infection with a sudden onset of urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, flank pain, and fever. Chronic pyelonephritis may be caused by recurrent acute infections or long-term chronic irritation, and the symptoms are subtle, but the resulting kidney damage may be more severe.
Mechanism of infection and risk factors
The main pathogen of pyelonephritis is Escherichia coli, which can enter the bladder through the urethra and then travel retrograde from the bladder to the kidneys, invading the renal pelvis and renal parenchyma. Other pathogens may also spread to the kidneys through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. High-risk groups include people with abnormal glucose metabolism or weakened immunity, people with structural abnormalities of the urinary tract, patients with bladder emptying disorders, and patients with long-term urinary catheterization. In addition, women are more susceptible to infections due to their shorter urethra.
Analysis of predisposing factors and etiologies
Urethral obstruction and incomplete bladder emptying: Urethral obstruction can lead to retention of urine in the bladder, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. Urethral stricture, prostatic hyperplasia, bladder dysfunction, etc. can cause incomplete bladder emptying.
Unclean sex: Unclean sex can cause bacteria to enter the urinary system from the urethra, especially in women who are more susceptible to infections due to their short urethra.
Weakened immunity: Weakened immunity makes it impossible for the body to effectively fight infections, causing bacteria to multiply quickly and invade the kidneys.
Structural abnormalities of the urinary tract: Congenital or acquired structural abnormalities of the urinary system may lead to reflux of urine or urethral strictures, increasing the risk of infection.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of pyelonephritis is crucial to help us identify early and take effective preventive measures.
Practice good hygiene to prevent sources of infection
To prevent pyelonephritis, the first thing to do is to understand the source of the infection. Urinary tract infections and cystitis are common causes of pyelonephritis, and practicing good hygiene can significantly reduce the risk. The following suggestions can help reduce the chances of infection:
Wipe it in the right way
For women, it should be wiped from front to back after urination to prevent anal bacteria from entering the urethra and reduce the chance of urinary tract infections. Men should also keep their genitals clean to prevent infection.
Change your underwear regularly
Wearing breathable, sweat-wicking underwear can help keep intimate areas dry and prevent bacteria from growing. Be sure to change it regularly, especially during the hot season or after exercise.
Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking a moderate amount of water helps to urinate and prevent urine from concentrating and flushing away bacteria and impurities in the urethra. It is usually recommended to drink about 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day, unless your doctor recommends adjustments.
Urinate regularly
Holding urine for long periods of time allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder and risk infecting the kidneys. Try to maintain the habit of urinating every 3-4 hours, especially after high temperatures and exercise.
Gentle detergent
Avoid washing your genitals or intimate areas with harsh chemical lotions, which may disrupt the normal microbiological environment and increase the risk of infection.
Hygiene options
Women should change their hygiene products regularly and keep them clean during menstruation. Avoid using pads or tampons that are not breathable or irritating to avoid discomfort or infection.
Proper diet and kidney health
A good diet is essential for keeping your kidneys healthy. Eating a balanced diet and making food choices that reduce the burden on your kidneys can help prevent pyelonephritis.
Cut back on foods high in sodium
Long-term high-salt diet will increase the burden on the kidneys, especially for patients with high blood pressure and abnormal glucose metabolism, and excessive salt will exacerbate kidney damage. It is recommended to reduce high-sodium foods such as pickled foods, processed foods, and pickles, and choose fresh ingredients for cooking.
Increase dietary fiber
Foods containing dietary fiber not only help with gastrointestinal health, but also help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of kidney disease. Fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, vegetables, nuts and legumes are recommended.
Moderate protein intake
The kidneys need to process waste products from protein metabolism, so excessive protein intake can increase the burden on the kidneys. In particular, people with chronic kidney disease or abnormal glucose metabolism should control their protein intake and choose protein sources of high biological value, such as fish, eggs, and low-fat dairy products.
Adequate vitamins and minerals
Eating foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as citrus, spinach, and almonds, can boost immunity and help fight infections. Potassium-rich foods, such as bananas and sweet potatoes, help lower blood pressure and protect kidney function.
Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake
Excessive alcohol consumption and caffeine intake can lead to dehydration and increase the burden on the kidneys. It is advisable to control the intake of these beverages and choose water-rich natural juices or water alternatives.
By practicing good hygiene and eating wisely, prevention of pyelonephritis is not only simple and practical, but also provides a good foundation for general health. Actively adjust your lifestyle, stick to the right diet and hygiene, stay away from pyelonephritis, from now on!