What is typically the first line of treatment for pyelonephritis?

The first line of treatment for pyelonephritis is the administration of antibiotics. Pyelonephritis, which is a type of urinary tract infection that affects the kidneys, is primarily caused by bacterial pathogens. The appropriate antibiotic therapy targets these pathogens to eradicate the infection, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications such as renal scarring or systemic infection.

Starting with antibiotics is crucial as it directly addresses the underlying cause of the illness. Although other supportive therapies, such as pain medication and hydration, may play a role in overall patient management, they do not address the infection itself, which is the critical issue in pyelonephritis. Surgical intervention may be considered in specific complicated cases, such as when there are abscesses or obstructive uropathy, but it is not a first-line approach for managing typical pyelonephritis.

Hence, antibiotic treatment is the cornerstone strategy for effectively managing this condition.