If your eyes feel swollen as soon as you wake up in the morning, people often consider it to be the result of fatigue, staying awake late at night or wrong sleeping position, but this common mistake can sometimes be a sign of a serious health problem. Swelling around the eyes in the morning can sometimes be the first sign of decreased kidney function. Nephrology expert said that swelling of eyes can be the most important early sign of kidney problem. So let us know how swelling of eyes and face can be the first sign of kidney disease.
How swelling of the eyes and face is the first sign of kidney disease
Swelling of the eyes in the morning (called periorbital puffiness) may be the first sign of kidney disease. This happens when the filtering unit (nephron) of the kidney reduces its functioning and protein starts leaking into the urine. Especially a protein called albumin is affected. This protein helps in maintaining fluid in the blood. When this protein passes into the urine, fluid starts accumulating in the tissues of the body, causing swelling of the face and especially around the eyes.
Why is there more swelling in the morning?
When you lie flat while sleeping, gravity causes body fluid to accumulate in the tissues, especially under the eyes. As the day progresses, this fluid moves into the legs and ankles, and the puffiness of the eyes becomes less visible.
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Other signs and symptoms of swelling of the eyes and face
Apart from kidney problems, there can also be some temporary reasons for swelling in the eyes. Such as lack of sleep, allergies, eating too much salt, dehydration, but if swelling persists and other symptoms appear along with it, then it should not be ignored. There can also be serious signs like frothy or foam-like urine, persistent swelling in the ankles, fatigue and weakness, increasing blood sugar.
Who should take special precautions?
Diabetic patients, people with high blood sugar and those who have a family history of kidney disease should not ignore swelling of the eyes, as it can be an early warning sign for them. Many kidney functions are linked to other body systems, such as heart and blood sugar control, so ignoring early symptoms, especially eye swelling, can pose a health risk.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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