Bags under the eyes - the cause

Under-eye bags are primarily caused by swelling, often resulting from fluid accumulation. Another reason for their formation may be the displacement of fatty tissue, creating small hernias. This is then a problem of a structural nature, known as periorbital edema.

Dark circles under the eyes are a completely different issue, often manifesting as a bluish skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation. They occur as a result of the visibility of blood vessels through thin skin or excessive melanin production.

An unhealthy lifestyle often leads to the formation of unsightly under-eye bags. Their appearance is linked to several key factors that disrupt the body's natural balance:

• retention of fluids,
• chronic fatigue, stress, and lack of sleep,
• harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, resulting in toxin accumulation and skin dehydration,
• improper diet, including excess salt (which promotes water retention) and vitamin deficiencies (weakening skin condition),
• excessive exposure to UV rays, which damage the skin.

The main causes of the formation of unaesthetic bags under the eyes are genetic predispositions and natural skin aging processes. Inherited traits can affect the structure of the eye socket, which promotes fluid accumulation or excess fat deposition in this delicate area.

Over the years, the skin gradually loses collagen and elastin, leading to its sagging. Additionally, the muscles and connective tissue weaken, ceasing to effectively support the subcutaneous fat tissue. As a result, it shifts, creating characteristic puffiness.

Swelling under the eyes often signals more serious health problems, not just local ones. It can indicate systemic issues that disrupt fluid balance in the body, leading to visible edema. The causes of swelling under the eyes can be diverse and include:

• kidney or liver conditions,
• underactive thyroid,
• diabetes,
• iron-deficiency anemia,
• heart diseases, including high blood pressure,
• allergies,
• conjunctivitis,
• circulatory and lymphatic system disorders,
• dermatomyositis,
• hormonal fluctuations that promote water retention and accumulation of metabolic waste products.

Under-eye bags in children, similar to adults, often result from:

• genetic traits,
• fatigue,
• lack of sleep,
• allergies (e.g. food allergies, hay fever),
• parasitic infections (e.g. pinworm infestation),
• kidney issues.

If the swelling in a child persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, be sure to consult with a pediatrician.

Although under-eye bags are often harmless, in certain situations they require consultation with a doctor. You should consult with a specialist if:

• the swelling appeared suddenly,
• the bags are accompanied by pain, itching, or redness,
• the puffiness does not go away with rest or worsens over time,
• there are changes in urination,
• you feel general weakness,
• there is a sudden weight gain,
• you have breathing problems.

These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Effective reduction of under-eye bags requires choosing the right therapy. Often, the problem stems from daily habits, allergies, as well as genetic predispositions or aging. To reduce under-eye bags, the following can help:

• Getting enough sleep,
• Following a healthy diet low in salt,
• Ensuring proper hydration,
• Avoiding stimulants,
• Using cold compresses under the eyes,
• Taking medications (e.g., antihistamines for allergies),
• Using aesthetic medicine procedures, such as blepharoplasty (for advanced genetic or age-related changes).