What causes dark circles under the eyes in a 5-year-old child?

Dark circles in a 5-year-old child may be caused by genetic factors, lack of sleep, eye strain, allergic rhinitis, adenoid hypertrophy, and other conditions. These can be improved through adjusting sleep schedules, reducing screen time, and medical treatment. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing or frequent sneezing occur, prompt medical attention is needed.

1. Genetic factors: If parents have a history of dark circles, their child may inherit thinner skin around the eyes, making underlying blood vessels more visible and resulting in congenital dark circles. Usually no special treatment is required; regular eye care and avoiding irritation to the delicate eye area are sufficient.

2. Sleep deprivation: Irregular作息, staying up late, or poor sleep quality can slow blood circulation around the eyes, leading to pigmentation and dark circles. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule, ensure adequate daily sleep, avoid using electronic devices before bedtime, and develop healthy sleep habits.

3. Eye strain: Prolonged use of mobile phones, televisions, or other electronic devices, or extended periods of close-up work, can cause eye fatigue and poor circulation around the eyes. It is advised to limit screen time, spend more time on outdoor activities, and apply warm compresses to the eye area to relieve discomfort.

4. Allergic rhinitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust mites can trigger rhinitis, causing nasal congestion that obstructs venous return around the eyes, leading to dark circles accompanied by sneezing and runny nose. Under medical guidance, medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, loratadine syrup, and montelukast sodium chewable tablets may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Adenoid hypertrophy: Repeated inflammation can cause the adenoids to enlarge, blocking the posterior nasal openings and causing breathing difficulties during sleep. This disrupts blood circulation around the eyes, resulting in dark circles along with nighttime snoring and mouth breathing. Follow medical advice to use medications such as budesonide nasal spray, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium for oral suspension, and Biyuan Tongqiao Granules to relieve symptoms.

Maintain indoor cleanliness to reduce allergens, ensure a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, encourage children to wash hands frequently and avoid rubbing their eyes, engage in moderate outdoor activities, and maintain a regular routine to support both eye health and overall well-being.