new here, could this be an allergy sign?

[71newmom]

My 9 month old son has had puffy, purplish/pink circles under his eyes for months now - but he wasn't born with them. I breastfed exclusively for almost 8 months. Now we are on formula, and some finger foods (avocado, shredded cheese, crackers, fruits, veggies, chicken, and some deli meats (nitrate free). He has no other signs of allergy or intolerance. No belly or poop issues, no skin irritations. The ped is kind of blowing me off about it, but it is definitely significant. Most people comment on his appearance, like "oh, he looks so tired" or "it must be time for his nap". He actually sleeps quite well. I have an appt set up with an allergist in a couple of weeks. Is this what I should be doing, getting him tested? I really can't think of what else I can do, aside from starting a very tedious elimination diet or changing up his formula. But I don't even know if that would be helpful. Maybe it's seasonal/environmental allergies? We don't use any chemical cleaners in our house, and he sleeps on an organic mattress. I would appreciate any thoughts. Thanks!

[71newmom]

anyone, please?

[mbbinsc]

Dark circles are an allergy sign. Are there any other signs (eczema, strange stools, poor sleep)? Do you have an allergic family ( my DD has food allergies, while my DH and I have other kind of allergies).

[danipoppins]

Those are called 'allergy circles' in the allergy world. The crackers and cheese are big suspects. Is the formula you are giving him soy or dairy based? I think it might help to take all solids out of his diet for a bit, see if they improve. If they don't, then I think the formula may be the culprit :-/

Why did you stop nursing? Any way you can relactate? If he won't latch, maybe pump and feed him by bottle?

[mama1803]

Originally Posted by danipoppins

Those are called 'allergy circles' in the allergy world. The crackers and cheese are big suspects. Is the formula you are giving him soy or dairy based? I think it might help to take all solids out of his diet for a bit, see if they improve. If they don't, then I think the formula may be the culprit :-/

Why did you stop nursing? Any way you can relactate? If he won't latch, maybe pump and feed him by bottle?

Yup, our allergiest calls them "allergic shiners".

I agree with this advice. An elimination diet would be most helpful at this point. Not all doctors will test at this age and allergy testing isn't 100% accurate anyway.