Bacteria is the main cause of kidney infection. The most efficient and reliable form of treatment is by the usage of antibiotics. Oral treatment is sufficient in case of non severe incidents. In acute cases intravenous treatment is necessary. Intravenous treatment may be discontinued after the symptoms subsidies. Then normal oral treatment can be prescribed. Antibiotic used includes
- Fluoroquinolones (e.g. ciprofloxacin)
- Beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g. amoxicillin or cephalosporin), trimethoprimr (or co-trimoxazole).
Aminoglycosides are not generally used as they are highly toxic. These are sometimes used in the initial stages and discontinued thereafter.
An acute case of this disease requires Type IV hydration and IV antibiotic treatment and no time should be wasted in providing the same as it can be fatal.
Initial course of medicinal intake includes ciprofloxacin IV 400mg. The treatment may then be continued using, ampicillin IV 2g and gentamicin IV 1mg/kg. In pregnant patients ampicillin/gentamicin combination is preferred. Pregnant women should take extra care while being administered antibiotics.
Intravenous input and vasodilatation which increases the urine flow is practised in patients who are too unwell and septic. Surgery may be required in extreme cases to stop the recurring effects of this disease. Large amount of fluid intakes are also advised.