Guardian

Fatty & Fluid Tissue

THE fluid or fatty tissue that naturally collects under and around the eyes may become more prominent. This could be a hereditary problem or may occur as you grow older. Whatever the reason, this fluid or tissue build up can result in the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.

Sleeping with your head slightly raised may help to reduce the build up of fluids and fatty tissues under your eyes. Salty foods can cause the area around the eyes to retain fluid, so try to cut down your salt intake.

Ill Health

Chronic illness — especially the kidney or stomach complaints as well as thyroid problems — can cause darkening of the skin around the eyes. This may be a common symptom or may simply be a result of your body’s weakened state due to the condition.

Even minor ailments, such as the flu, can leave you with dark circles under the eyes.

Whether chronic or minor, if ill health is the cause of your dark circles, treating and curing the illness should rid you of the dark circles. Seek medical advice for the condition and remember to mention the dark circles as one of your symptoms.

Kidney Or Stomach

Dark circles under the eyes can be indicative of kidney or stomach complaints. This may be because of serious health issues — notably problems with your adrenal glands — that should be treated by a physician but they can be for less drastic reasons. Skipping meals, drinking too much caffeine and even having fruit juice or fruits with meals may be the culprit.

If you have other symptoms of kidney problems (burning during urination, lower back pain, etc) you should seek medical advice immediately. Also if you are experiencing severe stomach problems.

If you do not appear to be suffering from any serious condition but you do drink a great deal of caffeine or fruit juice, try to reduce your intake. You should eat regularly and ensure that your diet is balanced and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Menstruation

Many women find that they develop dark circles under their eyes during their periods. This is due to lack of iron, which is lost during menstruation.

Taking iron supplements during your period should help to reduce the dark circles.