11 Subtle Warning Signs Your Kidneys Are Asking For Help

2. Puffiness Around the Eyes

It’s easy to dismiss morning puffiness as a bad night’s sleep or too much salt, but swelling around the eyes—especially when it becomes consistent—can signal something deeper. When kidneys are damaged, they may allow protein to leak into the urine instead of keeping it in the bloodstream. This loss of essential protein can cause fluid to accumulate in tissues, particularly in the delicate skin around your eyes. The result is that telltale morning puffiness that doesn’t go away easily. If you notice swollen eyelids alongside other subtle health changes, don’t overlook it—it may be one of your kidneys’ earliest distress signals.