First visit to allergist, re: dark undereye circles

[GutInstinct]

My 2.5-year-old son doesn't seem to have any big allergies, but he does have dark circles sometimes and a little "crease" line under his eyes. Per the pediatrician's suggestion, we're taking my son to a pediatric allergist next week for the first time.

Any advice or suggestions on tests TO do and which NOT to do? I'm new to all this, not sure where to start. Any resources would be appreciated.

[mamefati28]

I am new to this as well.
My DS has the dark circles under his eyes, nasal congestion, and pneumonia twice in the last 5 months. I took him to an allergist on my own and he tested positive for dust mite allergy. I was a bit surprised, as I am pretty ignorant in the allergy dept.
Good luck with your visit, maybe a more experienced mom here can give you lots of good advice.

[GutInstinct]

Thanks! So what do you do for dust mites? Sounds like just something you have to learn to live with? How frustrating!

Any other moms know which tests they offer, and which to avoid?

[mom61508]

Originally Posted by GutInstinct

My 2.5-year-old son doesn't seem to have any big allergies, but he does have dark circles sometimes and a little "crease" line under his eyes. Per the pediatrician's suggestion, we're taking my son to a pediatric allergist next week for the first time.

Any advice or suggestions on tests TO do and which NOT to do? I'm new to all this, not sure where to start. Any resources would be appreciated.

DD has a similar issue. Her eyes are dark underneath and on the side only sometimes. her under eyes also get very puffy more so in the AM. DD also doesn't have any serious allergies but I think has sensitivities. We have been gluten free almost 3 weeks so we are going to see what improves there first then perhaps check other food groups. What your describing does sound like allergy shiners but I'm not an expert by any means. Is your DS having any other symptoms?

[mamefati28]

Ugh..dust mites!
So far we have....
Bought a new mattress and all new pillows and bedding materials- all organic and contain dust mite barriers from Organic Grace- a business run by another MDC momma

Seeing a classical homeopath

Seeing a chiropractor

Cutting way back on Dairy and Gluten

Keeping the house as clean and clear as possible

Dust mites is a REALLY CRAPPY one to have as they are everywhere and you can't eliminate them.
I hope all goes well at the allergist!

[deminc]

For dust mites we were told to target the bed and bedroom. After checking reviews etc, we bought a miele vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter and i vacuum his mattress and the sofa everyday, and also bought a dustmite mattress cover. Whenever he has a lot of broken skin, I vacuum twice a day. Beddings are kept at minimum and stuffed toys are limited to one at anytime. At skin areas that are healing but still a little raw and sensitive, I put physiogel cream as a mild barrier cream. Some mum told me that can help prevent contact flare-ups.

That and going on a restricted diet seem to be really helping. DS no longer sniffles through the night and his rashes are 90% gone.