Untangling the Causes of Eye Bags: Why a Precise Diagnosis is Key

Eye Doctor Explains How to Get Rid of Under EYE BAGS (YouTube link)

Under-eye bags are a common cosmetic concern that can stem from a variety of underlying anatomical changes. The factors listed in the statement are all recognized contributors:

• Orbital Fat Prolapse: As we age, the septum (a fibrous membrane) that holds the fat pads around the eyes in place can weaken. This allows the fat to bulge forward, creating the appearance of puffiness or bags under the eyes. This is a primary and well-established cause.
• Orbital Bone Resorption: The bones of the skull, including the orbital rim (the bone around the eye socket), undergo resorption or loss of volume over time. This can lead to a sunken appearance and reduced structural support for the overlying tissues, making eye bags appear more prominent and contributing to a hollowed look.
• Skin Laxity: The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate. With age, and due to factors like sun exposure and genetics, the skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to decreased elasticity and sagging. This loose skin can contribute to the formation and appearance of eye bags.
• Ligamentous Laxity: The supporting ligaments in the face, including those around the eye area, can stretch and weaken with age. This loss of support can cause the tissues to droop, exacerbating the appearance of eye bags and contributing to an overall aged look.

The Importance of Precise Diagnosis

Because eye bags can result from one or a combination of these factors, a "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach is often ineffective.  An accurate diagnosis by a qualified medical professional is essential to:

• Identify the Primary Cause(s): A thorough examination can help determine the dominant factors contributing to an individual's eye bags. For instance, if fat prolapse is the main issue, treatments will differ from those primarily addressing skin laxity or volume loss due to bone resorption.
• Rule Out Other Medical Conditions: In some cases, puffiness under the eyes can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as thyroid problems, allergies, infections, connective tissue diseases, or fluid retention due to other health issues. A proper diagnosis can help identify and address these if present.
• Tailor the Treatment Plan: Different causes necessitate different treatment strategies. Options can range from lifestyle changes and topical treatments for mild cases to non-surgical interventions like dermal fillers (to address volume loss) or laser resurfacing (to improve skin texture and tightness), and surgical procedures such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) to remove or reposition fat and excise excess skin. Festoons or malar mounds, which are distinct from typical eye bags, require specific treatment approaches.
• Manage Expectations: Understanding the specific cause helps in setting realistic expectations for treatment outcomes.

In conclusion, the formation of eye bags is a complex interplay of factors including fat prolapse, bone resorption, skin laxity, and ligamentous weakness. A precise diagnosis is paramount for developing an effective and targeted treatment plan to address this common aesthetic concern.

See Also:

1. Bags under eyes

Beyond Hemorrhoids: Key Colon Cancer Symptoms and Why Early Detection Matters

Top 5 WARNING Signs of Colon Cancer You MUST KNOW! (YouTube link)

Rising Prevalence: 

• Colon cancer is increasingly common, now affecting younger people (30s and 40s), not just those over 50. It's one of the most common and deadly cancers.

Top 5 Warning Signs:

• Blood in Stool: Can be visible (bright red or dark) or hidden (occult). Often mistaken for hemorrhoids, but testing is crucial as it may indicate deeper bleeding.
• Change in Bowel Habits: Includes diarrhea, constipation, gas, or IBS-like symptoms. Thin or small stools ("goat poop") may suggest a tumor affecting bowel shape.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing fat and muscle unintentionally is a red flag, as cancer consumes energy and triggers inflammation.
• Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: Bloating, cramps, or pain, often misdiagnosed as IBS, can signal a tumor affecting the colon.
• Fatigue or Anemia: Chronic bleeding leads to iron deficiency, causing paleness, tiredness, or dizziness. Doctors may prescribe iron without screening for cancer.

Screening Importance: 

Over half of colon cancer deaths could be prevented with proper screening. Tests include:

• Colonoscopy: Gold standard, examines the entire colon.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Less invasive, checks only the lower colon.
• Fecal Tests: Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or stool DNA tests (e.g., Cologuard) detect blood or cancer-related DNA.
• CT Colonography: Virtual colonoscopy, less invasive but requires prep.
• Liquid Biopsy: Emerging blood test for cancer DNA, not yet widely available.

Personal Experience: Dr. Brewer shared his colonoscopy results, revealing diverticuli (outward pouches in the colon) and a polyp (inward growth, potential cancer precursor). Both are linked to pressure in the sigmoid colon and require monitoring. His doctor recommended a high-fiber diet, though the speakers noted fiber’s role is debated in carnivore diets.

Risk Factors and Prevention:

• Environmental Changes: Increased colon cancer in younger people may be linked to diet, particularly high fructose consumption (e.g., high fructose corn syrup), which promotes inflammation and possibly cancer growth.
• Metabolic Disease: Type 2 diabetes and inflammation are significant risk factors, suppressing immunity and fueling cancer.
• Diet Debate: Processed meats (nitrosamines) carry some risk, but evidence linking unprocessed meats to colon cancer is weak. Carnivore and low-carb diets may improve gut health for some, but fiber can support a healthy gut biome.

Key Takeaway: Don’t ignore symptoms or assume they’re benign (e.g., hemorrhoids or IBS). Test, don’t guess, especially with a family history or symptoms. Lifestyle changes (e.g., reducing sugar, managing metabolic health) and regular screening are critical for prevention.

Additional Notes:

• Dr. Brewer’s colonoscopy experience highlighted the procedure’s discomfort but emphasized its necessity. He had a polyp and diverticuli, underscoring the importance of follow-up.
• The discussion touched on the gut biome, noting that both carnivore and plant-based diets can foster beneficial bacteria, but fiber may enhance gut health for some.

For more details on colon cancer screening or metabolic health, visit Cleveland Clinic website or focusing on personalized dietary and lifestyle choices, alongside regular check-ups for metabolic health. Always consult a doctor for personalized advice.