Dr. S.A. Rehman, General Medicine, Associate Prof. Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital, NIU shares his opinions on the link between the kidneys with the eyes.

1) Why and how do kidney problems affect the eyes? How are the two linked?

There are various ways that kidney issues might impact the eyes. The body’s fluid and electrolyte balance is critically dependent on the kidneys. Fluid retention can happen when the kidneys are not working correctly, which can cause swelling around the eyes. Moreover, hypertensive retinopathy—a disorder notorious for damaging the blood vessels in the retina—can result from high blood pressure, which is frequently linked to renal illness.

2) Can kidney disease lead to dry and sore eyes?

Indeed, dry and painful eyes may arise from kidney illness. This may occur as a result of uremic toxins that build up when kidneys are not filtering well or as a general fluid imbalance in the body that affects tear production.

3) Other symptoms of kidney disease to watch out for?

Other symptoms of kidney disease include:

– Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, or hands

– Changes in urine output and appearance

– Fatigue and weakness

– Shortness of breath

– Nausea or vomiting

– Persistent itching

4) How to approach it?

The first step in treating these symptoms should be to speak with a medical expert. They might suggest urine testing to search for abnormalities that point to an illness of the kidneys as well as blood tests to check for kidney function markers like blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine.