Dark under eye circles are a common occurrence in adults, but not unheard of in children. The common causes in adults like fatigue, decreased sleep and ageing do not apply to children. When seen in children it does not imply a serious underlying disorder or disturbed sleeping.
Causes
Allergies are the most common cause for dark under eye circles in children. Allergy can be triggered by pollen, dust, food, dog dander etc. Allergies produce a stasis that is stagnation of blood flow in the veins of the lower eyelid, which is so close to the thin skin surface and hence make the bluish congested veins show as darker skin, thereby appearing as dark circles. It is called as Allergic shiners. This is usually associated with a nasal blockage, frequent rubbing or scratching of the eyes, running nose, sneezing and other symptoms of allergies.
