There are many terms for bags under the eyes including dark circles and saggy or loose skin. Individuals have “bags under the eyes” because of mild swelling or puffiness and this condition becomes more common as we age, unfortunately. The tissues around your eyes weaken making them more prone to puffiness. It is also possible for fluid to collect in the space below your eyes, which of course makes the area appear more swollen.
Who may be prone to bags under the eyes?
Other causes for bags under the eyes besides allergies include weather changes that contribute to fluid retention such as when it is extremely hot and humid, eating a lot of salty foods can also make your body retain fluids, individuals sleeping flat on their back can also notice bags under the eyes and also individuals who do not get enough sleep on a regular basis may also notice that there eyes appear more often with bags under them. There are also those unfortunate individual who seem to inherit the condition.
Treating the condition
Individuals with bags under the eyes generally view the situation as a cosmetic one and not a medical condition. There are plenty of home treatments that can be done to manage the bags under your eyes. Placing a cold compress on the area can reduce some of the swelling. There are also over-the-counter remedies for eye puffiness.
Typically individuals do not see a medical doctor for this condition rather they look for cosmetic treatment. However, there are reasons for making an appointment with a medical doctor because of the bags under your eyes including if the situation becomes persistent or worsens, is accompanied by itching, pain or redness and if you start to notice swelling in other body parts such as your hands or legs. Swelling that appears in other body parts may be due to kidney or thyroid conditions, an infection or the swelling may be a symptom of allergies.
Anything that tightens the skin under the eye may improve the sagginess including laser resurfacing and chemical peels. Eyelid surgery also known as blepharoplasty can also remove the bags under eyes. The surgeon removes the excess fat and the sagging skin under the eyes.
It is important to get adequate amounts of sleep every night and to sleep with your head raised. Use two pillows or elevate the head of the bed a few inches. Sleeping in an elevated position helps to avoid fluids accumulating around the eyes during sleep.
If you notice bags under your eyes and follow the above advice you should find some relief.
If you are prone to allergies, take your medications as prescribed by your doctor or use over-the-counter remedies for allergies. Eliminate all causes of irritation such as hair dyes, certain soaps or cosmetics that may be causing your allergic reaction.
Source:
Mayo Clinic Bags under eyes http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bags-under-eyes/DS01151/DSECTION=lifestyle-and-home-remedies
