My daughter has dark circles under her eys and the doctor said it was allergies. I just would like to know what allergy causes the dark circles. -- Crystal, North Carolina

I have been tested for allergies and asthma, so far I know I'm allergic to dust, ragweed, dogs and cats. My problem is swollen eyelids since I have been 14, I'm now 52. Do you think it is something I eat or something in the air? My eyelids don't really itch and they are sometimes a little red, but some days I wake up and look like I've been beat up. Doctors just dismiss it since it doesn't hurt and it's not life threatening. -- Barb, Illinois

Dark circles are a fairly common condition for those with allergies, especially children. This is often referred to as an "allergic shiner." It is not caused by a specific allergy. It can be caused by any allergy that affects the sinuses.

When the sinuses are blocked, the veins around the sinuses and nose become congested. The veins surrounding the eyes become congested an enlarged also, because they drain into the veins around the nose and sinuses. The tiny veins around they eyes are close to the skin, and when they become engorged, their blusish color shows through the skin.

Sometimes when veins around the eyes are backed up because fluid can't flow freely to sinus veins, fluid seeps into the surrounding skin tissues causing swelling. It's important to realize that other conditions, some serious, can also cause swelling of the eyes. Anyone with swelling around their eyes should have it checked out by a physician.

When the swelling is caused by allergies, there may be other symptoms as well, such as runny nose and watery eyes. Treating the swelling consists of treating the allergy. The eyes can swell with angioedema. I've written more about angioedema here:
Treatment for angioedema

Eyes can also become swollen when rubbed with fingers that have come in contact with an allergen. Inhalent allergies can cause watery, itchy, or swollen eyes.

You've seen physicians for this, and they've determined it is not a life-threatening condition. That was an important first step. You've mentioned that you are allergic to dust, ragweed, dogs, and cats.

My recommendations would be to reduce your exposure to these items and see if the condition improves. For help with reducing exposure to dust mites and pets, see other items I've written here:

Dust control -- The bedroom first

Allergic reactions to cats

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