Know the early warning signs of kidney disease visible on your face and neck. Learn how to spot potential symptoms and take action for better kidney health.
Kidney Disease Symptoms: The kidney is a significant body part of the body since it supports other parts of the body.It purifies the blood, controls fluids and electrolytes, regulates blood pressure and stimulates the formation of red blood cells. But what if your kidney stops working or gets damaged? Your body sends you silent messages concerning kidney health, and some of these signals can be felt on your face and neck.
Kidney Disease Symptoms On Face And Neck
Here are 7 early signs and symptoms of kidney disease that you can spot on your face and neck.
1. Swelling Around The Eyes
Swelling around the eyes, especially in the morning, is one of the most common symptoms of health problems in the kidneys. This is because malfunctioning kidneys become unable to filter out excess water and waste in the body, resulting in water retention and swelling of tissues. There is also a high chance of swelling under the eye, as the thin and tender skin is most vulnerable.
2. Facial Puffiness
The swelling can spread to the whole face in addition to an increase in the number of eyes. This puffy face, or oedema, occurs as a result of the fact that the kidneys are unable to balance fluids. It could make your face look rounded or swollen or have indentations on your skin as a result of pressure or sleep. Although facial swelling could also be caused by allergies and other conditions, when it is accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a result of kidney problems.
3. Dark Circles Under the Eyes
Dark discolouration around the eyes is a sign of possible disease, and kidney disease is one of those problems. Inadequate kidney health can cause anaemia, or a lack of red blood cells, which will hamper the circulation of oxygen throughout the body. This may cause the skin beneath the eyes to darken or turn discoloured. In case dark circles are combined with fatigue, weakness or swelling, it may indicate a problem with the kidneys.
4. Neck Swelling or Lumps
Swelling in the neck may be caused sometimes by kidney problems and some complications in the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes that swell or cause fluid retention can cause a lump or puffiness in the neck. Although thyroid conditions or infections may also result in neck swelling, continual swelling and facial oedema or fatigue may indicate the presence of kidney-related complications.
5. Itchy Skin and Rash
Skin irritation or itching on the face and the neck is also a possible sign of kidney disease, though it is not always easy to notice. As kidneys fail to filter the waste products, this can give rise to itchy, dry skin or rashes.
6. Pale Lips or Mouth Ulcers
In other cases, the kidneys may fail to produce red blood cells, and the result is anaemia. One of the symptoms that can be seen is the discoloured or pale lips. Some individuals might even develop mouth ulcers or mouth sores, which can be accompanied by other conditions indicating problems with the kidneys.
In case any of above mentioned symptoms appear on your face or neck, please visit a doctor immediately. Early detection may prevent serious complications and improve your kidney health.
When should I see a doctor for kidney symptoms?
If you notice persistent swelling, fatigue, or changes in your skin, consult a doctor promptly.
Can kidney problems show on the face?
Yes, puffiness, pale skin, and unusual discolouration can indicate kidney issues.
About the Author
Muskan Gupta
Muskan Gupta is a passionate health journalist with over 4 years of experience; she has worked with leading media organisations like ANI and India TV. Currently employed at TheHealthSite.com under Zee Media, she brings health stories to life – covering everything from …