Understanding Kidney Health: Eye Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Kidneys are vital organs that filter waste and regulate blood pressure, but poor lifestyle choices can harm them. Interestingly, some signs of kidney damage can manifest in the eyes. Symptoms such as swelling, dryness, redness, blurred vision, and pressure in the eyes may indicate underlying kidney issues. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment. This article explores how to recognize kidney health through eye symptoms, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to changes in your vision. Read on to learn more about these critical indicators of kidney health.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 15, 2026, 11:42 IST

The Role of Kidneys in Our Health

Kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from our bodies, regulating electrolyte levels, and managing blood pressure. Unfortunately, an unhealthy lifestyle and poor dietary choices can lead to significant harm to these vital organs.

Recognizing Kidney Damage Through Eye Symptoms

Many individuals assume that kidney issues are only noticeable through changes in urine or urinary symptoms. However, certain signs of kidney damage can manifest in the eyes. Here are some eye-related symptoms to watch for:

Swelling Around the Eyes

One of the initial indicators of kidney issues is swelling around the eyes, known as 'periorbital edema'. This occurs when kidneys leak protein into the urine, causing fluid retention in surrounding tissues. While minor swelling upon waking is normal, persistent swelling may indicate kidney damage.

Dryness and Itching in the Eyes

Kidney damage can disrupt the balance of essential minerals and nutrients, leading to abnormal calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. This imbalance can result in dryness, burning sensations, and persistent itching in the eyes.

Redness in the Eyes

Improper kidney function can affect the body's metabolism, leading to the accumulation of calcium and phosphate crystals on the eye's surface, resulting in redness. This symptom is often mistaken for allergies, but it may indicate a serious kidney issue.

Blurred Vision

Diabetes and high blood pressure are significant contributors to kidney damage, both of which can harm the retina. When kidney function declines, fluid retention can alter the shape of the eye's lens, causing blurred vision.

Impaired Peripheral Vision

Peripheral vision, or the ability to see from the corners of the eyes, can be affected by high blood pressure linked to kidney problems. Increased pressure on the optic nerves may lead to a gradual loss of peripheral vision, resembling glaucoma.

Feeling Pressure or Pain in the Eyes

When kidneys fail to eliminate excess fluid, it can lead to increased internal pressure in the eyes, resulting in sensations of heaviness, pressure, or mild pain.

Conclusion

It is essential to pay attention to these symptoms, as they may indicate underlying kidney issues that require medical attention.