There are many reasons why children may have dark rings under their eyes. Some common reasons for dark rings or circles under the eyes include lack of sleep, allergies, nasal congestion and eczema. Your child may also have dark rings under their eyes as part of a hereditary condition. Dark rings under the eyes are often not serious, but the Mayo Clinic indicates that most people don’t like them for cosmetic reasons. Consult your doctor or dermatologist if you are concerned about the dark circles under your child’s eyes.
Causes and Symptoms of Dark Rings Under Your Child’s Eyes
The dark circles or rings may be very noticeable under your child’s eyes or they may be faint in appearance. In medical terms, the dark rings are defined as round and uniform areas of pigmentation under each eye.
Most often, dark rings only affect adults, but they can affect children as well. Males and females are equally susceptible to getting dark rings under their eyes.
Medical Conditions Causing Dark Rings Under Child’s Eyes
Medical reasons your child may have dark rings or circles under her eyes are:
- allergies
- eczema
- nasal congestion
- lack of sleep
- vitamin K deficiency
- nutritional deficiency
Your doctor will be able to evaluate and help understand why your child has dark rings under her eyes and on what treatment may be required.
Non-Medical Conditions Causing Dark Circles Under Child’s Eyes
Your child may suffer from dark rings or circles under his eyes for non-medical reasons such as:
- family history
- pigmentation irregularities
- sun exposure
Reduce Dark Rings Under Child’s Eyes With Natural Remedies
You can try some self-care methods to treat dark rings under your child’s eyes. These treatments are inexpensive and may help reduce the appearance of dark rings or circles under her eyes.
- cold compress: Put a cold compress on the dark rings to reduce dilation of blood vessels.
- extra sleep: Incorporate some extra sleep into her routine.
- nasal congestion: If she is congested, try saline sprays to relieve congestion.
- sun exposure: Limit exposure to ultraviolet light and use sunscreen.
Medical Treatments to Reduce Dark Circles Under Child’s Eyes
If your child needs medical treatments, your doctor will be able to let you know the details of treatment. Some treatments to reduce the dark rings under your child’s eyes include use of prescription creams, chemical peels and laser therapy. Injections can also be done to reduce hollowness under eyes.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
MayoClinic.com. "Dark circles under eyes" (accessed October 24, 2010)
Docshop.co. "Undereye Circles" (accessed October 24, 2010)
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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