Looking like you’ve lost a round in the ring? If you’ve got dark circles under the eyes that are not the result of a boxing match or late nights, you may be suffering from a dreaded summer allergy.
Allergies are usually associated with spring, but they can occur any time of the year. While a runny nose and watery eyes are usually associated with allergies, black and tired looking eyes can be another telltale sign of allergy. Dark circles under the eyes are caused by swelling and discolouration from congestion of the blood vessels beneath the skin.
Tired and droopy eyes can also be used by swollen adenoids. Pollen from grasses, weeds or trees, as well as mould and insect bites are common allergy sources in the summer. High humidity can further encourage dust mites and mould. Before you reach for the antihistamines, the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy says proper diagnosis is important with an allergy test (skin prick tests and/or blood allergen specific IgE tests) by a doctor so correct therapy can be prescribed.
There are also some things you can do to reduce your exposure to allergens such as using a dehumidifier to reduce dampness, cleaning bed linen weekly, regular use of a vacumm with a HEPA and regularly rinsing your nose with a saline wash.
