If your child has dark circles under her eyes, it's probably not a cause for concern. While dark under-eye circles may be a sign of illness, the illnesses that cause dark circles are typically mild and easily treated. If you are concerned about your child's dark under-eye circles, take her to the pediatrician for a diagnosis.
Appearance
Dark circles under the eyes usually have a blue tint to them. The circles can range from small to large in size and get so dark that they appear black or purple. Dark under-eye circles are often most noticeable on children who have pale or fair complexions.
Cause
Dark under-eye circles can occur when your child's nose becomes congested. Normally, the veins around your child's eyes drain into the veins around his nose. But if his nose is stopped up, the fluid builds up in the veins around his eyes, leading to inflammation. This inflammation causes the blue, puffy appearance of under-eye circles.
Treatments
Treating your child's nasal congestion will usually take care of the under-eye circles as well, according to "Parents" magazine. Most nasal congestion that leads to dark eye circles in children is caused by allergies, frequent sinus infections, recurrent colds or swollen adenoids that cause your child to breathe through her mouth.
Misconceptions
Dark circles that appear under your child's eyes are actually not a sign that he is tired or not getting adequate sleep, according to AboutKidsHealth. While dark circles under your child's eyes may make him look tired, the two are usually not related. Dark under-eye circles in children are also not a sign of poor nutrition or health.
Expert Insight
Dark under-eye circles in children are most often a result of allergies, according to pediatrician Karen Sokal-Gutierrez. Your child may experience allergies from foods or airborne allergens that cause irritation in her nasal passages. If your child has other symptoms, such as eczema, rashes or sneezing, she may have allergies. Visit her pediatrician to discuss whether allergies may be causing your child's dark eye circles.
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