Why does my toddler have bags under her eyes?

Author: Miss Noemy Gorczany  |  Last update: Saturday, August 23, 2025

Dark circles under the eyes are often caused by veins around the eyes getting larger and darker if the nose is blocked. Kids often have nasal congestion if they have colds or allergies. It can also be caused by large adenoids. These are lymph nodes that sit above the tonsils and behind the nose.

Is it normal for toddlers to have eye bags?

Common causes of dark circles under the eyes include nasal congestion from viruses, allergies and enlarged adenoids. Dark circles in some children are from lack of sleep. Depending on the cause of your child's dark circles, many children do not require any treatment.

What vitamin deficiency causes bags under the eyes?

What Deficiency Causes Dark Eye Circles on Skin? Vitamin deficiencies that are associated with dark circles include vitamins E, D, K vitamin, A, and B12. In addition to that, iron deficiency is also a root cause of dark circles.

When should I be worried about eye bags?

When to see a health care provider. You may not like the way they look, but bags under eyes are usually harmless and don't require medical care. See your health care provider if the condition causes vision problems, irritation or headaches or is accompanied by skin rash.

Why does my child look pale with dark circles under eyes?

Anemia. Anemia is when there are not enough red blood cells in the body to move oxygen around, which can lead to dark circles under the eyes, pale skin, and a host of health problems. For many kids with anemia, the issue could be as simple as not eating enough iron-rich food, especially if the child is a picky eater.

Dark Circles in Kids: Causes Every Parent Should Know

What deficiency causes dark circles in toddlers?

Insufficient vitamin A may lead to the formation of dark circles under your child's eyes. It is vital to be conscious of the daily eating habits of your child. This is the only way to ensure they are getting sufficient fruits and vegetables that are not only rich in vitamin A but also other essential nutrients.

How to know if a toddler is anemic?

What are the symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia in a child?
  1. Pale skin.
  2. Being grouchy (irritable) or fussy.
  3. Lack of energy or tiring easily (fatigue).
  4. Fast heartbeat.
  5. Sore or swollen tongue.
  6. Enlarged spleen.
  7. Wanting to eat odd substances, such as dirt or ice (also called pica).

What health issues cause bags under eyes?

Allergies: Congestion and inflammation from allergies can sometimes exacerbate under-eye puffiness. Medical conditions: Some health conditions such as thyroid problems can cause the eyes to become swollen. Genetics: Having under-eye bags can be a physical characteristic that runs in your family.

What allergies cause dark circles under the eyes?

However, allergens that are always around — like pet dander and dust mites — can cause allergic shiners year round. Itchy or watery eyes can also make the appearance of allergic shiners worse. Rubbing your eyes for relief may cause further irritation to your skin.

What age is it normal to have eye bags?

Under eye bags typically appear in our 40's and 50's, although there are lifestyle habits that can increase the likelihood, they'll show up sooner. It's not unheard of for individuals to begin experience the formation of eye bags in their 20's.

What causes dark circles under children's eyes?

Dark circles under your baby's eyes may be caused by genetics, rubbing their eyes or fatigue. They may also be developing a minor illness such as a cold, flu or ear infection. Other causes of dark circles under your child's eyes include dehydration, snoring and injuries.

What organ causes bags under eyes?

Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a high-sodium diet can contribute to the formation of under-eye bags. Medical conditions: Certain conditions such as thyroid problems, sinus infections, and liver or kidney issues may also create under-eye bags.

Why are my child's eyes puffy underneath?

Swelling under the eye can develop for a wide range of reasons, from mild conditions, such as allergies or blocked tear ducts, to more severe conditions, such as organ failure.

What vitamin deficiency causes bags under eyes?

Dark circles under the eyes can indicate health problems. Dermatologists advise checking for deficiencies in vitamins D, K, and E, and recommend lifestyle changes. Dark circles under the eyes aren't just a cosmetic concern, they can also signal underlying health issues.

What food has iron for toddlers?

Foods with heme iron
  • Red meat, such as beef, pork, lamb, goat, or venison.
  • Seafood and fatty fish.
  • Poultry, such as chicken or turkey.
  • Eggs.

Is it normal for toddlers to have bags under their eyes?

Dark circles under the eyes in kids are common. It can stem from genetics or other causes, such as allergies or a lack of sleep. The circles may be brown, purple, or blue, depending on skin tone. One medical term for dark circles under the eyes is periorbital hyperpigmentation .

Do dark circles under eyes indicate illness?

It is possible, though, for the appearance of darker skin in the area under the eyes to arise from an existing health problem. This can include asthma, allergies, poor circulation, hormonal shifts, malnutrition, anemia and diseases that affect the liver or kidneys.

What do eyes with allergies look like?

Allergic conjunctivitis – people with seasonal or other allergies who are exposed to an allergen – such as pollen, pet dander or dust – can experience a reaction in their eyes. It can cause your eyes to become red, itchy, watery, and puffy.

Do bags under eyes mean anything?

Usually eye bags do not indicate a serious condition, they can possibly be symptomatic of other problems. For example, if they occur suddenly, they may indicate that you have a thyroid condition like Graves' disease.

Can dehydration cause bags under the eyes?

Dehydration can contribute to the appearance of under-eye bags, as your body tries to retain fluid wherever it can. The amount of water you should drink varies by sex, age, and activity level. But, a good rule of thumb is the 8×8 rule, which is at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day.

Can too much sugar cause bags under the eyes?

Diets high in sugar, salt, and processed foods can result in fluid retention. This can leave your face looking puffy and cause under-eye bags. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy carbohydrates can help keep your skin glowing.

What are the behaviors of iron deficiency in toddlers?

Infants with chronic, severe iron deficiency have been observed to display increased fearfulness, unhappiness, fatigue, low activity, wariness, solemnity, and proximity to the mother during free play, developmental testing and at home (11–17).

Can anemia lead to leukemia?

Usually, anemia is a symptom of an underlying condition, such as iron deficiency, chronic kidney disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis or cancer. Anemia does not lead to leukemia.

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