The round areas of pigmentation under the eyes called dark circles do not only affect adult men and women but also infants and children. Although the appearance of dark circles in infants may cause alarm, MayoClinic.com says that this is rarely the sign of a serious ailment. Among babies, dark circles can result from colds and allergies, genetics or nasal congestion. You may consult your pediatrician in such conditions. Let us then see more facts about dark eye circles in infant and children.
Identification of Dark Circles in Infants
The color may appear from brownish to purple and usually discoloration is due to swollen blood vessels under the eyes. This color is more visible among infants of paler and fair complexions. It will be noticed that the dark circles have the same look on both eyes and are accompanied by eye bags and slight swelling.
As Caused by Allergies and Congestion
Dr. Barton D. Schmitt who is the director of general consultative services at the Children’s Hospital of Denver, nasal congestion which results from allergies, colds or sinus infections is the most common cause of dark circles in infants. As the infant’s nasal passage becomes swollen, the veins from his eyes to his nose dilate and darken which lead to the appearance of dark circles. It is necessary to consult with your physician so that he can advise some treatment options. As soon as the allergies disappear, the dark circles will also disappear.
As Caused by Genetics
According to the MotherNature.com, dark circles can be hereditary, so if the parents suffered from dark circles, the child may experience it too. The said discoloration can also appear due to genetic irregularities in skin pigmentation which is very common among Asian and African-American descent. There are no known treatments for hereditary dark circles but some dermatologists can recommend at-home treatments to minimize their appearance.
As Caused by Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation, redness, swelling and itching of the skin and once the eczema affects the under eyes of infants, it causes circles under the eyes. Jon M. Hanifin and Michael L. Reed conducted a study in 2007 and reported at Medscape Today that eczema affects 6-17 % of the U.S. population. Once you notice that eczema had affected your child, consult your pediatrician right away for proper medication.
Recommendations for Dark Eye Circles in Infants
An associate professor of ophthalmology at North Shore University Hospital and Cornell Medical College, Dr. Eric Donnenfeld, recommends soaking a washcloth in cold water then twisting it out can be applied to the dark area under your infant’s eyes for at least 10 minutes every morning. This cold compress may shrink the blood vessels temporarily and reduce the look of the dark circles of your infant under his eyes.
If the baby has a dark circle on only one eye and the discoloration gets worse time after time, you have to report it to your doctor at once. He will examine your child and discuss with you some underlying condition and advised you possible treatment.
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