When pyelitis is uncomplicated by nephritis, diet must be so prescribed as to insure a copious elimination of urine in order that the pelves of the kidneys will be well washed. This is best accomplished by drinking milk, or water, or both, freely. Mild cases can be greatly helped in this way, and in a little time the pus, mucus, and other products of inflammation can be washed out. If, however, the pyelitis is severe, it will be mitigated, the alkaline fermentation that is so usual in the urine of the pelvis will be lessened, and the irritating products of it will be more rapidly removed. When the pelvis of a kidney is inflamed, there is constant danger of nephritis. A bland diet that will not produce renal irritants must be used. A milk diet is the best, but a modified milk diet - such a one as has already been recommended for those suffering from mild nephritis or threatened with it - may be used. Mild cases of pyelitis often recover completely if patients use a generous mixed diet, provided they drink water copiously - say one and a half or two quarts daily. For these cases sulphur waters are recommended because of the medicinal value of the sulphureted hydrogen that they contain. They are usually also mildly laxative, which is a distinct advantage. As in nephritis, pure water containing little or no mineral matter is generally to be preferred.

Often, as in cystitis, a farinacious, fruit and water diet maintained for a few days does good. Patients must be kept at rest, protected from cold, and when they exist, indigestion and constipation must be corrected.