Baggy, puffy and dark eyes can make it looks as though you're tired, even when you've had a full night's sleep. Everyone suffers from baggy eyes now and again, but if you have a recurring problem with baggy or puffy eyes, it could be genetics or even allergies causing the problem. Try various prevention and treatment options before you make an appointment with your doctor; baggy eyes are normal, but they can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious medical problem.
Symptoms
When you suffer from baggy eyes, you may notice puffiness around your eye area, along with dark circles that are a result of the shadows being cast on your face from your puffy eyes. MayoClinic.com notes that you may also notice loose or saggy skin beneath the eyes, exacerbating the look of sagging and puffiness.
Causes
Baggy eyes can have a myriad of causes. Genes can determine your predisposition to the problem; if your parents had saggy eyes, there's a good chance you will as well. Your puffy eyes may be the result of allergies, drinking too much alcohol, a high salt intake, tiredness and fatigue, fluid retention and dermatitis.
Prevention
Some types of baggy eyes can be prevented simply by rolling up a towel and placing it under the head of your mattress. Sleeping in an elevated position can help prevent excess fluid from pooling in the pockets underneath the eyes and creating bags, notes Columbia University's Health Services. You can also prevent bags by getting the seven to nine hours of sleep each night recommended by the National Sleep Foundation.
Treatment
If you've woken up with baggy eyes again, you can treat them by using cold cream rubbed under the eye. The cold cream helps to constrict saggy skin for a tighter appearance, and the massaging motion can help move fluid away from the eye for a smoother look. If you suffer from allergies, try an antihistamine, which can help shrink dilated blood vessels due to nasal congestion.
Warning
While baggy eyes are normal, and at times easy to treat, constant baggy eyes could be the sign of a serious allergy or other medical condition. If your eyes don't seem to improve with sufficient sleep, eye creams and other lifestyle changes, schedule an appointment with your doctor to talk about treatment and management strategies, says the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System.
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