Kidney disease is often associated with fatigue or changes in urination habits, but some early warning signs can appear in the eyes. Because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance in the body, they are closely linked to the circulatory system, including the delicate blood vessels in the eyes. When kidney function begins to decline, it can cause a range of changes affecting vision, eye moisture, and even color perception. These changes are often difficult to detect in the early stages but can progress without obvious kidney-related symptoms.

Persistent eye swelling. Waking up with slightly puffy or swollen eyes after a late night or salty meal is normal. However, if the eyes remain swollen throughout the day, especially around the eyelids, it could be a sign of proteinuria, a condition where protein leaks into the urine due to kidney damage. This protein leakage causes fluid to accumulate in soft tissues, such as around the eyes. Eye swelling due to kidney-related problems is often persistent and can also be accompanied by other symptoms like foamy or bubbly urine. People with these signs should not ignore them and should get a urine test and early kidney function check.

Blurred or double vision. Sudden vision changes, such as blurred vision, difficulty focusing, or double vision, can be caused by problems with the small blood vessels in the eyes, called hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy. Both poorly controlled high blood pressure and diabetes are common causes of chronic kidney disease, which increases the risk of damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This damage can lead to fluid leakage, retinal swelling, or, more seriously, vision loss. Monitoring kidney function along with regular eye exams in people with high blood pressure or diabetes is essential.

Dry, itchy, or irritated eyes. Chronic dry or itchy eyes cause discomfort and loss of focus. In people with end-stage kidney disease or on dialysis, dry eyes are a common symptom. This condition can be the result of an imbalance of minerals like calcium and phosphate or the accumulation of waste products that affect tear production, the eye's lubricant. If your eyes often feel gritty, red, or painful, especially without any environmental irritants, you should get a health check. Drinking enough water and using artificial tears can provide more comfort, but identifying the root cause is crucial.

Red eyes. Red eyes can be caused by many factors, such as allergies, fatigue, or infection. However, they can also be a sign of uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes. High pressure in the blood vessels can lead to small ruptures in the capillaries of the eyes, causing them to appear red or inflamed. Autoimmune diseases like lupus nephritis not only affect the kidneys but also other organs, potentially causing eye inflammation. Red eyes, along with other systemic symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, or skin rash, require consulting a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation.

Difficulty seeing certain colors. Difficulty distinguishing colors or noticing dimming vision is not only due to aging eyes. Some people with kidney failure may notice small changes in how they perceive colors, especially blue and yellow. This may be due to damage to the optic nerve or changes in the retina, both of which can be the result of prolonged high blood pressure, diabetes, or urea toxins (waste products that build up in the body due to poor kidney filtration). These vision changes may start slowly and go unnoticed at first, but become more pronounced over time. If you notice these signs, especially if accompanied by unusual fatigue or changes in urination habits, you should check your kidney function and eye health. Early detection plays a vital role in controlling kidney disease and protecting vision.

Bao Bao (According to Times of India)