5. Infection
The kidneys can become infected much like any other organ in the body. Considering kidneys filter out pathogens and viruses that are in the body, it makes sense that they are susceptible to developing the same infections they are filtering. Infections can come on mildly and present very little symptoms. The longer the infection stays in the kidneys, the more damage it can do and the more serious the symptoms become.
The infection can also prevent the kidney from filtering out other toxins in the body, which can make the infection worse and allow it to spread.
Doctors may need to perform X-rays to determine the exact location of the infection as well as its severity. Infections can be treated with antibiotics. If they are left untreated, it can lead to kidney disease or even complete kidney failure. In rare cases, dialysis may be needed to treat the infection and remove it from the body.