Red flags & when to go in person for Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

A kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis, is a serious infection that affects the kidneys. It often starts as a bladder infection and can cause symptoms like fever, pain in the back or side, nausea, and feeling very tired. In children, prompt care is important to prevent complications. Telemedicine can help by providing advice and guiding families on what to watch for. However, some symptoms require immediate in-person medical attention. This guide helps parents and caregivers recognize danger signs and understand when to seek urgent care for their child. It also explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for kidney infections, and offers tips to prepare for a virtual visit. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or very fast breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent vomiting preventing fluid or medicine intake — go to urgent care.
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine output — seek prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and advice.
• Guidance on home care and monitoring.
• Determining urgency and need for in-person care.
• Answering medication and follow-up questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination or diagnostic testing.
• Administration of intravenous antibiotics.
• Management of severe or complicated infections.
• Treatment of dehydration or other urgent complications.

What is a Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)?

A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection that reaches the kidneys. It can cause swelling and damage if not treated quickly. Children may have symptoms like fever, chills, pain in the back or side, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. It often follows a bladder infection but is more serious.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Children with a kidney infection may experience:

If your child has these symptoms, it is important to get medical advice quickly.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Certain signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention in person:

If you notice any of these, go to the nearest emergency or urgent care facility.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to consult healthcare providers remotely. For kidney infections, telemedicine can:

It is a useful tool for early advice but not a replacement for physical exams or tests.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Kidney Infections

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child’s condition worsens or does not improve, in-person evaluation is necessary.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, have ready:

This helps the healthcare provider give the best advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down all symptoms your child is experiencing and when they began.
• Measure and record your child's temperature.
• List any medicines or treatments your child is currently using.
• Ensure a quiet, private space with a reliable internet or phone connection.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding medications and care.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs.
• Keep track of fever and hydration status.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms appear or if your child does not improve.

FAQs

Can a kidney infection be treated at home?

Mild kidney infections may sometimes start with oral antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, because kidney infections can become serious, it is important to have a medical evaluation. Never try to treat a suspected kidney infection without professional advice.

How long does it take for a child to get better from a kidney infection?

With proper treatment, children often start to feel better within a few days. However, the full course of antibiotics usually lasts 7 to 14 days. It is important to complete all prescribed medicine even if symptoms improve.

When should I call for help if my child has a kidney infection?

Call for urgent medical help if your child has trouble breathing, persistent vomiting, severe pain, signs of dehydration, confusion, or a high fever that does not improve. Also, seek help if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for kidney infections in children?

Telemedicine can be a helpful first step to assess symptoms and get advice. However, it cannot replace physical exams and tests needed for diagnosis and treatment. If your child’s condition is serious or worsening, in-person care is necessary.

Sources

1. Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
3. Pyelonephritis — Mayo Clinic: Patient Care and Health Information.
4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical care.