Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people in the UK every year.
While they are often uncomfortable and inconvenient, if left untreated, a UTI can escalate into a much more serious condition—a kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis.
The key to preventing this escalation lies in early detection and treatment. But how long does it actually take for a UTI to progress into a kidney infection? Let’s dive into that and explore the risks, symptoms, and steps you can take to protect your health.
Understanding urinary tract infections
A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, causing an infection. Your urinary tract includes your bladder, kidneys, urethra, and ureters. Most UTIs are bladder infections (also called cystitis) and can be quickly treated with antibiotics.
However, if the infection is left unchecked, it can spread up the ureters to your kidneys, leading to a kidney infection. On average, it can take between a few days to a week for a UTI to turn into a kidney infection if left untreated.
However, this timeline can vary depending on individual factors such as your general health, age, and the bacteria causing the infection. If you’re prone to infections or have a weakened immune system, the risk of rapid progression is even greater.
Recognising the symptoms of a UTI
Catching a UTI early can prevent it from spreading to your kidneys. Common UTI symptoms include:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- A frequent and urgent need to urinate, even if little comes out
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Blood in your urine
These symptoms can be mild at first, but they can quickly worsen if ignored. The NHS advises that you seek medical attention if you notice these signs, particularly if they persist for more than a day or two.
How does a UTI turn into a kidney infection?
A kidney infection occurs when bacteria from the bladder make their way up to one or both of your kidneys. When this happens, the infection becomes much more serious, as your kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and toxins from your bloodstream.
A kidney infection can lead to severe complications, including kidney damage or sepsis if not treated promptly.
In the UK, kidney infections account for around 250,000 hospital admissions every year, highlighting the importance of addressing urinary tract infections early on.
Risk factors for developing a kidney infection
- Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop UTIs and kidney infections due to their anatomy. The shorter urethra in women allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect the urinary tract, making infections more likely.
- Kidney Stones: Obstructions such as kidney stones can make it easier for bacteria to become trapped in the urinary tract and cause infections.
- Weak Immune System: Conditions like diabetes, HIV, or undergoing chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
- Catheters: Having a catheter in place can increase the risk of bacteria entering the urinary tract and causing infections.
If you fall into one of these risk groups, it’s important to monitor UTI symptoms closely and seek treatment at the first sign of infection.
How to prevent a UTI from turning into a kidney infection
Prevention is always better than cure, and this is especially true when it comes to avoiding kidney infections. Here are a few tips to stop a UTI from escalating:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria out of your urinary tract.
- Complete Your Antibiotics: If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics for a UTI, make sure you finish the entire course, even if you start to feel better.
- Don’t Hold It In: Holding in your urine for long periods can encourage bacterial growth. Try to empty your bladder regularly.
- Practise Good Hygiene: Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to reduce the risk of bacteria entering your urethra.
- Cranberry Products: While evidence is mixed, some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements may help prevent recurrent UTIs in some people.
Final notes
A UTI can escalate into a kidney infection in a matter of days if left untreated, but the good news is that this is preventable with early detection and prompt treatment.
By recognising the symptoms, seeking timely medical advice, and following preventative steps, you can stop a UTI from progressing to a more serious condition.
Always listen to your body—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. Taking action early can save you from the discomfort and potential complications of a kidney infection.