What is a standard characteristic of nephrotic syndrome?

In nephrotic syndrome, a standard characteristic is the presence of "dull puffiness of the eyes." This symptom is primarily due to the retention of fluid and protein loss that leads to edema, particularly around the eyes and in other areas of the body. The edema is typically characterized by its soft texture and can be noticeable upon waking in the morning.

In nephrotic syndrome, conditions such as the loss of proteins in urine (proteinuria) lead to a decrease in oncotic pressure, allowing fluid to escape into the surrounding tissues, resulting in this distinct puffy appearance. This symptom is key in identifying nephrotic syndrome and is often among the first observable signs in patients.

While weight gain can occur due to fluid retention associated with nephrotic syndrome, it is not specific to the syndrome itself and can be seen in other conditions. Excessive sweating is not a recognized feature of nephrotic syndrome. Pitting periorbital edema could also be observed, but it is typically described less frequently than the softened, non-pitting dull puffiness that characterizes the classic presentation of the syndrome.