Not From Lack of Sleep
Dark circles under the eyes in children are not usually from lack of sleep or troubled sleep. When you see dark circles under the eyes of your kids, look for another health problem.
Not a Sign of Bad Health
If you see dark circles under your child's eyes, it does not necessarily mean they have poor health or lack vitamins or nutrition.
Nasal Congestion Likely to Blame
Dark circles under the eyes are most likely caused by nasal congestion, according to Barton D. Schmitt, M.D. in Parenting magazine. If the nose is blocked, the veins around the eyes get larger and darker. Nasal congestion can be caused by hay fever, sinus infections, colds or allergies. It can also be caused by large adenoids, which cause your child to breathe through his mouth more than his nose. Nasal congestion can also be a result of enlarged tonsils.
Common With Fair Complexion
Children with a lighter complexion often appear to have darker circles under their eyes without any related health problem.
Runs in Families
Dark circles under the eyes can be common within a family. Some people genetically have thinner skin under the eyes. Check family circle to see if dark circles are the norm.
Not a Sign of Anemia
Often the child with dark circles also looks pale, but this is not a sign of anemia. Instead, the congestion or puffy skin makes the surrounding area appear pale.
Signs to Call a Doctor
Dark, puffy circles are not usually cause for calling a doctor. However, do call your child's doctor if he snores badly at night, breathes mostly through his mouth, has persistent nasal congestion or has signs of skin irritation on the face.
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