How to prepare for a video visit about Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) - Triage

Audience: adult

A kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis, is a serious type of urinary tract infection that affects one or both kidneys. It often causes symptoms like fever, pain in the back or side, chills, and feeling very tired. Preparing for a video visit about a kidney infection can help you get the most from your time with the healthcare provider. During the visit, you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you are taking. Telemedicine can often help assess your condition and decide if you need urgent care or further tests. However, some situations require in-person evaluation, such as severe pain, high fever, or signs of dehydration. This guide explains how to prepare for your video visit, what telemedicine can and cannot do for kidney infections, and when to seek emergency care. Remember, this information is for education and triage only and does not replace a full medical diagnosis or treatment plan.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever above 39°C (102°F) that does not improve with medication.
• Severe pain in the back or side that limits movement or breathing.
• Confusion, dizziness, or fainting, which may indicate a serious infection or dehydration.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and medical history review.
• Guidance on home care and medication use.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation or tests are needed.
• Follow-up to monitor response to treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring palpation or imaging.
• Severe symptoms needing urgent or emergency care.
• Administering intravenous antibiotics or fluids.
• Performing laboratory tests or urine cultures onsite.

What is a Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)?

A kidney infection is a bacterial infection that usually starts in the bladder and travels up to one or both kidneys. It can cause serious illness if not treated promptly. Common symptoms include fever, chills, pain in the lower back or side, nausea, and sometimes painful or frequent urination.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a video visit, a healthcare provider can ask about your symptoms, review your medical history, and guide you on the next steps. They may recommend urine tests or blood tests, prescribe antibiotics if appropriate, and advise on home care. Telemedicine is useful for initial assessment and follow-up but may not replace the need for physical exams or hospital care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To prepare, find a quiet, private place with good internet connection. Have a list of your symptoms, when they started, and any other health conditions. Write down all medications and supplements you take. Be ready to describe your pain and any other signs like fever or vomiting. Having a thermometer and blood pressure monitor can be helpful if you have them.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience severe pain, high fever (above 39°C or 102°F), difficulty breathing, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, or signs of dehydration, seek emergency medical care immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious infection needing urgent treatment.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Take all prescribed medications as directed, even if you start feeling better. Drink plenty of fluids and rest. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek emergency care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting and internet connection.
• Have a list of your symptoms and when they began.
• Prepare a list of current medications and supplements.
• Have a thermometer and blood pressure monitor ready if available.
• Be ready to describe your pain and any other symptoms clearly.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed until finished.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the infection.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activities until you feel better.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek emergency care if you develop red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can a kidney infection be treated through a video visit?

Often, a healthcare provider can assess symptoms via video and prescribe antibiotics if a kidney infection is suspected. However, some cases may require in-person tests or hospital care.

What should I do if I cannot get a video visit soon?

If you have symptoms of a kidney infection, seek medical care promptly. If a video visit is not available, visit a healthcare clinic or emergency department, especially if symptoms are severe.

How long does it take to recover from a kidney infection?

Recovery usually takes about one to two weeks with proper antibiotic treatment. It's important to complete the full course of medication even if you feel better sooner.

Can I prevent kidney infections?

Good hygiene, staying well hydrated, and promptly treating bladder infections can help reduce the risk of kidney infections. Avoiding irritants and urinating after sexual activity may also help.

Sources

1. Pyelonephritis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pyelonephritis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.