Most likely, after a difficult night, you’ve noticed those bothersome black shadows beneath your eyes when you peered in the mirror. However, those bags you’re lugging around might be a warning sign from your body more than just a visual annoyance.
Although age and late nights do affect the appearance of our under-eyes, persistent or increasing puffiness and discolouration may be signs of something more serious. No, you don’t have to freak out, but it might be time to focus a bit more.
Let’s explore the reasons behind these changes and when you might want to schedule a visit with that physician.
Typical reasons
It’s not always necessary to panic because of dark circles and bags under the eyes. Many of the causes are fairly benign and reversible.
Among the frequent reasons are:
Lack of sleep: Although the specific relationship between eye bags and inadequate sleep has not been established by science, it is undeniable that skipping sleep can exacerbate the condition, particularly in the morning.
Genetics: According to UCLA Health, the skin under the lower eyelid may also be darker than the surrounding skin due to genetic information passed down from parents. “It is more likely that you will have or develop darker skin under your eyes if your parents or siblings do.”
Hyperpigmentation with sun exposure: Your under-eyes may begin to darken if you’ve been soaking up the sun without wearing sunscreen. Dark circles, or periorbital hyperpigmentation, are the result of combining this with heredity, hormonal changes, or even allergies. Despite being widespread, this illness “can affect an individual’s emotional well-being and influence quality of life,” per a National Library of Medicine study.
Allergies, edema, and swelling: Prolonged allergies can cause discolouration and puffiness. Swelling is the term used to describe the dilatation of blood vessels and subsequent fluid leakage into surrounding tissues caused by the histamine response. Not only is that puffiness bothersome, but it can be a symptom of a more serious immunological response.
Dermatitis: The blood vessels beneath your eyes may enlarge and protrude through your skin as a result of eczema or contact dermatitis.
Dehydration: The skin beneath your eyes may become lifeless and lifeless if you don’t drink enough water.
Gravity and aging: The Cleveland Clinic states that one of the most frequent causes of dark circles is aging. The blood vessels beneath your skin may become more noticeable as you age because the skin beneath your eyes starts to shrink and relax. According to the website, this may make your undereye area appear darker. Gravity always prevails, let’s face it.
aspects of lifestyle.Dark circles under your eyes can also be caused by other things like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress.
When to consult a physician
The majority of under-eye changes are harmless, but occasionally they are your body’s subliminal plea for assistance. Sleep, hydration, and a healthy diet may not be enough to eliminate your eye bags and dark circles, so it may be time to look more closely.
Among the underlying medical conditions are:
Poor blood circulation: Blood flow is a major factor in this situation. Gently massage the black spot beneath your eyes to see whether it is the result of impaired circulation. Slow circulation may be the cause if it lightens under pressure and darkens again a few seconds later. Certain cardiac issues or a sedentary lifestyle can cause discolouration by slowing down the process.
Food sensitivities: You might be surprised to learn that your protein bar or morning yogurt could be the culprit. Experts say that under-eye darkening and persistent inflammation can result from food intolerances. Additionally, there are more than 140 potential triggers.
Iron deficiency (anemia): Low iron may be the cause of your dark circles and persistent fatigue, cold, or lightheadedness. The dull, discolored skin under your eyes is caused by your body’s inability to transfer oxygen via your blood when it doesn’t have enough iron.
Although the majority of dark circles and bags are not a cause for concern, they may occasionally indicate that your body requires further attention. Don’t ignore it if easy solutions don’t work; instead, have a doctor look it over.
