ALLERGIC SHINERS

Most people associate the word “shiner” with a black eye that occurs as the result of a fight or injury.  These shiners are bruises caused by blood leaking into the tissues around the injured eye.  Allergic shiners, however, are dark circles that appear under the eyes due to sinus blockage caused by allergies.  These dark, purplish circles look more serious than they really are.  Allergic shiners are caused by reduced blood flow in the tiny veins under the eyes.  Instead of leaking, the veins just enlarge with pooled blood and fail to drain properly.  An allergist can help determine what allergens may have caused the sinus congestion.  After treating the underlying allergy, allergic shiners may gradually disappear.

P.S.  Decreasing swelling in the nose and sinuses can improve mucus drainage and blood flow in the ocular area.

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