Differential Diagnosis for Dark Circles Under Eyes
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Allergic rhinitis: This is often the most common cause of dark circles under the eyes due to increased blood flow and congestion in the nasal passages, leading to puffiness and discoloration.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Fatigue and sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can cause paleness, which may make the dark circles more noticeable, and can also lead to puffiness due to fluid retention.
- Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can lead to a decrease in skin elasticity, making the dark circles more pronounced.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to dark circles due to their genetic makeup, which can affect skin thickness and pigmentation.
- Aging: As we age, the skin loses its elasticity and becomes thinner, making the blood vessels under the eyes more visible and causing dark circles.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Thyroid disease: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles under the eyes.
- Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia can cause pale skin, making the dark circles more noticeable, and can also lead to fatigue, which exacerbates the condition.
- Kidney disease: Chronic kidney disease can cause a buildup of toxins in the body, leading to changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles.
- Liver disease: Certain liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, can cause changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles under the eyes.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sjögren's syndrome: This autoimmune disorder can cause dry eyes and skin, leading to dark circles under the eyes.
- Addison's disease: This rare endocrine disorder can cause changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles under the eyes.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins such as vitamin K or vitamin B12 can cause changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles under the eyes.
- Certain medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines or decongestants, can cause changes in skin pigmentation, including dark circles under the eyes, as a side effect.