According to Dr. Aditi Wadhwa, Department of Dermatology - Sharda Hospital (India), periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) is a common skin condition, characterized by darkening of the skin around the eyes and surrounding areas. This condition affects both men and women, but is more common in people with dark skin.
POH can also be a result of other factors such as inflammation, vascular problems, sagging skin or aging. Additionally, iron deficiency can be associated with the appearance of dark circles, suggesting that systemic factors also influence skin condition.
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia Can Cause Dark Circles Around the Eyes
Iron deficiency anemia, when the amount of iron in the blood is too low, can be a potential cause of POH (dark circles under the eyes). Iron deficiency causes the skin to become pale, making dark circles under the eyes more noticeable. Furthermore, iron deficiency reduces the amount of oxygen supplied to the skin around the eyes, which can also contribute to increased dark pigmentation under the eyes. Therefore, when treating skin problems such as POH, it is important to pay attention to systemic health factors, such as iron deficiency.
Diagnostic measures for iron deficiency
To diagnose iron deficiency, your doctor will need to perform a full blood test, including a complete blood count, ferritin levels, and red blood cell morphology. Iron deficiency is often caused by an unbalanced diet or poor iron absorption. However, conditions such as celiac disease or bowel surgery can also reduce iron absorption, making diagnosis difficult. Therefore, doctors need to look closely to detect the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
How to manage iron deficiency
Treatment of iron deficiency and dark circles under the eyes (POH) needs to be comprehensive, combining cosmetic improvements with attention to the underlying health causes, says Dr. Aditi Wadhwa. Treatment may include iron-rich foods, iron supplements, and treatment of medical conditions that cause iron deficiency.
POH can affect appearance and quality of life, making the sufferer look tired or older. Therefore, addressing both the aesthetic and health issues will help improve the quality of life for people with POH.
