inflammation of the renal pelvis

Inflammation of the renal pelvis is known as Pyelonephritis. This condition is typically due to a bacterial infection, often originating in the lower urinary tract, that travels up to the kidneys.

Here are the steps that describe the process:

1. Infection: Most cases of pyelonephritis are complications of common bladder infections. Bacteria enter the body from the skin around the urethra. They then move up the urethra to the bladder.

2. Spreading: Sometimes, the bacteria persist in the bladder, multiplying and causing a bladder infection (cystitis). If not treated promptly, the infection can travel further up the urinary tract to the kidneys.

3. Inflammation: Once the bacteria reach the kidneys, they can cause the renal pelvis (the part of the kidney where urine collects before it flows into the ureter) to become inflamed.

4. Symptoms: This inflammation can cause symptoms such as pain in the back or side below the ribs, fever and chills, frequent urination, strong, persistent urge to urinate, burning sensation or pain during urination, pus or blood in your urine (hematuria), urine that smells bad or is cloudy.

5. Treatment: Pyelonephritis can be treated with antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Remember, if you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it's important to visit a healthcare provider promptly to prevent complications like pyelonephritis.