Urosepsis is a condition where a urinary tract infection (UTI) leads to a systemic infection that spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream. The severe effect of this systemic infection is referred to as sepsis.
As many as 25% of individuals who develop sepsis are found to have had a UTI as the source of the condition.
Urosepsis is very serious and can quickly become life-threatening. Even with rapid diagnosis and treatment, urosepsis can develop into an infection that is difficult to control with medication and supportive treatment. In the most severe cases, sepsis can lead to multi-system organ failure.
Science Photo Library / Getty Images
A UTI is an infection that affects a portion of the urinary tract. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, the ureters, the bladder, and the urethra. An infection in any of these can cause discomfort, pain, the urge to urinate frequently, and a fever.
Most UTIs are considered lower urinary tract infections and affect the bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis). Kidney (pyelonephritis) and ureter infections are less common, and they are typically more severe and can be potentially more harmful than lower UTIs.
Early identification of a UTI, along with proper treatment, is the best way to prevent urosepsis. It is possible to develop urosepsis without first having symptoms of a UTI or seeking treatment.
There are common signs and symptoms of a UTI, and you can experience any combination of them. For example, some people may have a fever, while others can feel normal but may notice a change in the appearance of their urine.
The most common signs and symptoms of a UTI include:
- Burning during urination
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Urine with a strong odor
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Discolored urine
Symptoms of urosepsis are similar to the symptoms of sepsis, and can include fevers, rapid heart rate, hypotension (low blood pressure), rapid breathing, and difficulty breathing.
Anyone who has a UTI can develop urosepsis, but certain factors can make it more likely.
These factors increase the risk of urosepsis:
- Having surgery
- Weakened immune system
- Having a kidney transplant
- Chronic illness
- Recent diagnosis of UTI
- History of recurrent UTI
- History of urosepsis
- Urinary tract disorders
- Advanced age
- Diabetes
- Frequent catheterization
- Recent catheterization
- Inability to fully empty the bladder
- Indwelling (long-term) catheter
There are multiple reasons why urosepsis is common after surgery. You may have a urinary catheter in place during your surgery, and it may stay in place for hours or days after your procedure.
The placement of the catheter is done using a sterile technique. However, a catheter is a foreign body, which means that it is susceptible to bacterial contamination.
Certain types of surgery increase the risk of infection even further. Surgery that takes place in or near the urinary tract increases the risk of a subsequent UTI or urosepsis. Surgeries such as kidney transplants, prostate surgeries, and bladder surgeries are known to increase the risk of urosepsis.
If you develop a UTI or urosepsis while you have a urinary catheter in place, your catheter will likely be removed and replaced with a new one (if you still need one). The catheter that is removed may be sent to the lab to identify the type of infection.
In all cases, antibiotic therapy is necessary to treat urosepsis. Blood culture and sensitivity are sometimes done to determine which antibiotics will be most effective. Most people experience improvement of signs and symptoms within 72 hours of antibiotic therapy.
An ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)may be needed to identify the source of the infection.
The treatment of urosepsis is largely dependent on the severity of the illness. If you have minor symptoms, you may be effectively treated at home with antibiotics.
However, urosepsis may progress to septic shock. If you have signs of this complication, which can include confusion and organ failure, you may need to be admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, Treatment can include IV antibiotics, management of blood pressure, and assisted ventilation.
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 2
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 3
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Abdominal, pelvic or back pain or cramping
Bloody or pink-colored urine (hematuria)
Cloudy urine
Difficult or painful urination, or burning with urination (dysuria)
Fever and chills
Foul-smelling urine
Frequent urination
General ill feeling
Pain during sexual intercourse
Urgent need to urinate
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 4
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 5
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 6
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 7
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 8
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 9
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 10
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 11
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 12
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 13
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 14
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 15
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 16
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 17
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 18
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 19
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 20
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 21
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 22
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 23
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 24
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 25
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
Page 26
Sepsis is a life-threatening bacterial infection of the blood; urosepsis is sepsis that complicates a urinary tract infection. Urosepsis requires treatment with antibiotics and may require supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids and oxygen. If undiagnosed or untreated, urosepsis can progress to septic shock, a serious and life-threatening condition complicated by dropping blood pressure, rapid heart and breathing rates, decreasing urine output, and alterations in mental status. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidneys filter the blood, creating urine, which travels through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it exits the body through the urethra. In the male, the prostate wraps around the urethra as it travels from the bladder to the penis. Most of the time, bacteria that cause urosepsis enter the body through the urethra and make their way to the prostate or kidney before entering the bloodstream. Symptoms of uncomplicated urinary tract infections can include burning with urination, the need to go to the bathroom frequently or urgently, cloudy urine, and pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort. Fever may be present. If pyelonephritis (kidney infection) is present, back or abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, high fever, shaking chills, night sweats, and fatigue may also occur. Any of these symptoms may precede the development of urosepsis. Urosepsis is more common in women than in men, and is more likely to occur in the elderly or people who have weakened immune systems or conditions such as diabetes. Obstruction of the flow of urine by an enlarged prostate, kidney or bladder stones, tumors, or urethral scarring increases the risk of urosepsis, as does any condition that interferes with bladder emptying. Instrumentation of the urinary tract during surgeries, procedures, or catheterization increases the risk of infections that can lead to urosepsis. Urosepsis is a life-threatening emergency. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have symptoms of sepsis such as high fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), rapid breathing, fast heart rate, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, or decreased or absent urinary output. Seek prompt medical care if you have symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection without symptoms of sepsis.
Urosepsis shares many of the same symptoms as other types of sepsis, including rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, weak pulse, profuse sweating, unusual anxiety, changes in mental status or level of consciousness, and decreased or absent urinary output. Prior to the development of these symptoms, you may experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection vary from individual to individual. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include:
Urosepsis can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
Low temperature (hypothermia; temperature 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit or lower)
Not producing any urine
Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Respiratory or breathing problems, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, labored breathing
Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
Severe nausea and vomiting
Weak pulse
Urosepsis is caused by a bacterial infection of the urinary tract or prostate that spreads into the bloodstream. Even if you are in general good health, many of the bacteria that cause urosepsis can normally occur in your intestines.
A number of factors increase the risk of developing urosepsis. Not all people with risk factors will get urosepsis. Risk factors for urosepsis include:
Advanced age
Compromised immune system due to such conditions as HIV and AIDS, taking corticosteroids, organ transplant, or cancer and cancer treatment
Diabetes
Fecal incontinence (inability to control stools)
Female gender
Immobility
Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention
Polycystic kidney disease
Pregnancy
Surgeries or procedures involving the urinary tract
Urinary tract obstruction by stones, an enlarged prostate, urethral scarring, or other causes
Use of catheters to drain urine
The primary treatment for urosepsis is the use of antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Your treatment may also include supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, and oxygen therapy may be used. If your case is severe, medications may be used to increase your blood pressure and mechanical ventilation may be required.
Common treatments for urosepsis include:
Blood transfusions if necessary
Drainage of abscesses if present
Initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the most likely infectious organisms
Intravenous fluids to maintain blood volume and blood pressure support
Lithotripsy to break up kidney or bladder stones if present
Mechanical ventilation if needed
Medications (vasopressors) to increase blood pressure
Monitoring and maintenance of blood sugar
Oxygen therapy to maintain blood oxygenation
Removal of any catheters or other devices that may be infected
Targeted antibiotic therapy to treat specific bacteria once culture results are available
Your age and general health can play a role in your risk for potential complications. In some people, especially older adults, people with chronic diseases, and those with a weak immune system, complications of untreated urosepsis can be serious, even life threatening in some cases. You can help minimize your risk of serious complications by following the treatment plan you and your doctor design specifically for you. Complications of urosepsis include:
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC; a clotting disorder leading to the formation of multiple blood clots in the bloodstream)
Kidney damage
Kidney or other organ failure
Perirenal abscesses (collections of pus near the kidneys)
Prostatic abscesses (collections of pus in the prostate)
Renal abscesses (collections of pus in the kidneys)
Scarring of the urinary tract
Shock
Kidneys and the Urinary System
Healthgrades Editorial Staff
Last Updated: January 19, 2021
Last Review Date: 2021 Jan 19
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.