The skin around the eyes is thin and sensitive, making it easily affected by changes in the body. Under-eye bags can result from lack of sleep, especially in the morning, allergies, or a high-salt diet, but these typically improve after rest.
However, in many cases, swelling under the eyes persists despite adequate sleep. Experts suggest that when this condition is prolonged, the cause may not be related to lifestyle habits but rather to an internal imbalance within the body.
The link between under-eye bags and kidney function
While morning under-eye bags can stem from various causes, if the condition does not improve even with sufficient rest, it could indicate a kidney problem.
Kidneys filter and remove excess fluid, while also helping maintain protein balance in the body. When this function declines, the body may retain water.
Protein loss through urine, known as proteinuria, also reduces the blood vessels' ability to retain fluid, causing fluid to leak into interstitial tissues and leading to swelling. The area under the eyes is where this phenomenon, called periorbital edema, is easily observed. This can be a suggestive sign of kidney issues.
Accompanying signs to note
Not all instances of under-eye bags are serious, but if they persist and are accompanied by other unusual symptoms, attention is warranted. Under-eye bags that are more noticeable in the morning and do not diminish after many days could be an initial sign. Some individuals observe abnormally foamy or bubbly urine, reflecting potential protein loss through the urine.
Urine output may gradually decrease over time, while swelling appears in the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Persistent, unexplained fatigue is also common. In some cases, high blood pressure combined with these symptoms further increases suspicion of kidney problems.
When multiple signs appear simultaneously, individuals should seek medical examination. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to the silent progression of the disease, making it harder to control.
Kidney disease can progress silently
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic kidney disease progresses slowly and is often irreversible, ranging from mild dysfunction to kidney failure. Individuals with kidney failure often require dialysis or a kidney transplant to sustain life. Many early-stage cases show no clear symptoms, only mild signs like swelling or changes in urine.
Protein leakage through urine and fluid retention in the body are two important signs for early detection. Timely diagnosis can slow progression and improve the prognosis of the disease.
What to do if under-eye bags persist?
If under-eye bags do not improve after some time, you should consult a doctor for examination. If kidney involvement is suspected, the doctor may order urine tests (for proteinuria), blood tests to assess kidney function, and blood pressure monitoring. Early detection helps control and slow the progression of kidney disease.
Bao Bao (Source: Times of India)
