urine with nausea
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Having urine changes (like pain, burning, or blood) along with nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) is often a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) that has reached your kidneys. This is called a kidney infection or pyelonephritis. It happens when bacteria from your bladder travel up to one or both kidneys.
Key facts
- A kidney infection is a more serious type of UTI that needs prompt medical care.
- Nausea and vomiting are common when the infection affects your kidneys.
- Most kidney infections are treated successfully with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
- Without treatment, a kidney infection can cause permanent damage or spread to the blood.
Yes, kidney infections are not rare. Each year many people, especially women, get a kidney infection after a bladder infection.
Anyone can get a kidney infection, but women are at higher risk because their urethra is shorter. People with diabetes, a weakened immune system, pregnant women, older adults, and those with bladder problems are also more likely to get one.
Symptoms
- High fever (over 39°C or 102°F) that does not come down with medicine
- Severe shaking chills (rigors)
- Cannot keep any fluids down due to vomiting
- Feeling very confused, drowsy, or faint
- Signs of sepsis: rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, pale or cold hands/feet
- ⚠Pain in your lower back or side that is getting worse
- ⚠Blood in your urine
- ⚠Fever with nausea that prevents you from drinking
- ⚠Symptoms that started 24–48 hours ago and are not improving
- ⚠You are pregnant or have a weakened immune system
Common symptoms
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Frequent urge to urinate even when little comes out
- Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pain in your lower back, side, or below your ribs
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling very tired or weak
Symptoms in children
- Fever without a clear cause
- Fussiness or crying when urinating
- Bedwetting or accidents (if they were previously dry)
- Vomiting or poor feeding
- Pain in the belly or back
Symptoms in older adults
- Confusion or acting disoriented (this may be the only sign)
- Fever or lower body temperature
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness or sudden falls
- Nausea without obvious cause
Causes
Main causes
- Bacteria (most often E. coli from your gut) that travel up into the bladder and then to the kidneys
- A bladder infection (cystitis) that is not treated in time
- Blockage in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or an enlarged prostate, that traps bacteria
- Use of a urinary catheter (tube) that can introduce bacteria
Risk factors
- Being female
- Having a previous UTI
- Sexual activity (can push bacteria into the urethra)
- Diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Pregnancy
- Kidney stones or other blockages
- Older age (especially men with prostate problems)
- Inability to empty your bladder fully
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- You have fever, back or side pain, and nausea or vomiting
- You see blood in your urine
- You have a burning feeling when you pee and it hurts in your lower back
- You are pregnant and have any UTI symptoms
Book a routine appointment if:
- You have mild urinary symptoms (like frequent urination or burning) that last more than two days
- You have had UTIs before and want to discuss prevention
Diagnosis
A doctor will ask about your symptoms, take your temperature, and may press on your lower back or side to check for tenderness. They will likely ask for a urine sample to test for infection.
Tests that may be done
- Urine dipstick test: a quick check for signs of infection (white blood cells, blood, nitrites)
- Urine culture: a lab test that grows bacteria from your urine to find exactly which germ is causing the infection
- Blood tests: to check how well your kidneys are working and if the infection has spread to your blood
- Imaging tests (like ultrasound or CT scan) if there is a possibility of a blockage or if you have repeat infections
What to expect at your appointment
If a kidney infection is suspected, the doctor may start antibiotics right away, even before the culture results come back. You may be asked to rest, drink plenty of fluids (unless you are vomiting), and return for a follow-up to make sure the infection is gone.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how severe the infection is. Most people with kidney infections are treated with antibiotics. If symptoms are mild, you may take pills at home. If you have high fever, severe pain, or cannot keep fluids down, you may need IV antibiotics in a hospital for a short time.
Self-care at home
- Drink plenty of water (unless your doctor tells you otherwise) to help flush bacteria
- Rest as much as possible to help your body fight the infection
- Take paracetamol (if safe for you) for fever and pain – ask your pharmacist or doctor about the right dose
- Use a heating pad on your back or side for pain relief
- Do not hold in your urine; go when you feel the urge
Medical treatments
Antibiotics are the main treatment. Your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic based on the type of bacteria found or most likely present. It is important to take the full course, even if you feel better. Sometimes a single antibiotic injection is given in the clinic. If you are very ill, you may need fluids and antibiotics through an IV in a hospital.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for a kidney infection. It may be considered if there is a blockage (like a kidney stone) that cannot pass on its own, or if an abscess (pus pocket) forms in the kidney that needs to be drained.
Living with this condition
Most people recover fully from a kidney infection within a few days to a week of starting antibiotics. You may still feel tired for a few weeks. Follow your doctor's advice, finish all medicines, and come back for the check-up they recommend.
Lifestyle tips
- Drink plenty of fluids every day to keep your urinary tract healthy
- Urinate when you feel the need; do not hold it for long periods
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet (for women)
- Empty your bladder soon after sexual activity
- Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays or douches that can irritate
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet to support your immune system. Stay well hydrated with water. Avoid drinks that can irritate the bladder, like coffee, alcohol, or citrus juices, if you find they bother you. Gentle exercise like walking is fine once you feel better, but rest while you are ill.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Having a kidney infection can be stressful, especially if you have severe pain or need hospital care. You might feel anxious or down. It is normal. Talk to your doctor or a trusted person if you need emotional support.
Prevention
You can lower your risk of kidney infections by preventing bladder infections. Drinking enough water, going to the toilet when you need to, and practicing good hygiene help. Some people with repeat infections may be offered low-dose antibiotics to prevent them – talk to your doctor.
Vaccines
There is no vaccine for kidney infections, but staying up to date on routine vaccines (like flu and pneumonia) can help keep your immune system strong.
Screening programmes
Routine screening for UTIs is not recommended for everyone. However, if you have frequent infections, your doctor may check your urine from time to time to catch bacteria early.
Complications
If left untreated
- Permanent kidney damage (scarring) and loss of kidney function
- Sepsis: a life-threatening infection that spreads through the blood
- Kidney abscess: a pocket of pus that may need draining
- Recurrent kidney infections
Long-term outlook
With prompt antibiotic treatment, most people recover completely from a kidney infection and have no long-term problems. Even if you need hospital care, the outlook is very good. The key is to see a doctor as soon as you suspect a kidney infection.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.