What causes puffy eyes upon waking up in the morning?

Apr 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, waking up with swollen eyes in the morning may be caused by excessive water intake, fatigue, allergic reactions, conjunctivitis, glomerulonephritis, or other reasons. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The body's fluid balance is regulated by the kidneys; however, if water intake before bedtime exceeds the kidneys' excretory capacity, fluid retention may occur.

Under normal circumstances, waking up with swollen eyes in the morning may be caused by excessive water intake, overexertion, allergic reactions, conjunctivitis, or glomerulonephritis. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Excessive water intake: The body's fluid balance is regulated by the kidneys. However, if the amount of water consumed before bedtime exceeds the kidneys' excretory capacity, fluid retention may occur, leading to swelling the next morning, including in the tissues around the eyes. It is advisable to reduce or avoid drinking water before bedtime.

2. Overexertion: Prolonged eye use, insufficient sleep, or maintaining the same posture for extended periods may lead to eye fatigue. Excessive fatigue can cause congestion in ocular tissues, resulting in swelling around the eyes. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late.

3. Allergic reaction: An allergic response to environmental allergens such as pet dander, pollen, or dust mites may cause inflammation and swelling of the skin and tissues around the eyes. Medications such as promethazine hydrochloride tablets, ketotifen fumarate capsules, or loratadine tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

4. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctival tissue caused by infection, commonly accompanied by redness, swelling, pain, and increased eye discharge, which may also lead to periorbital swelling. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as chloramphenicol eye drops, ofloxacin eye drops, or ganciclovir eye drops to alleviate symptoms.

5. Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the glomeruli of the kidneys, which may lead to fluid retention in the body and generalized edema, including around the eyes. Under medical supervision, medications such as methylprednisolone tablets, furosemide injection, or erythromycin tablets may be used to relieve discomfort.

In daily life, moderate exercise and timely urination can help reduce edema.