A sleep expert has raised concerns about a common issue among university students, warning that dark under-eyes, often dismissed as a sign of late nights or poor sleep, could indicate serious health problems, including conditions linked to freshers’ flu. Dr Jordan Burns from Amerisleep highlights that while dark circles are sometimes harmless, they may point to underlying medical issues that require attention, particularly during the first weeks of university.
Dr Burns explains: “While natural eye bags and dark circles are not always a cause for concern, and can be due to aging, genetics, or a lack of sleep, they could indicate dehydration, medical conditions, or viral infections like freshers’ flu that often require medical attention.” He notes that students, caught up in new academic and social demands, often overlook these symptoms, mistaking them for normal signs of university life.
Freshers’ flu is a term used to describe the wave of mild viral infections that sweeps through university halls in the early weeks of term. Dr. Burns says: “Students are particularly susceptible to changes in their appearance during the first few weeks of university as their routine changes. These changes like eyebags, breakouts, or dull skin are exacerbated by poor sleep as they’re going on more nights out and waking up early for lectures. Dark circles under the eyes can also be exacerbated by rubbing eyes due to allergies, as tiny blood vessels can break and worsen existing darkness.”
The transition to university often disrupts sleep patterns, with students balancing late-night socialising and early morning lectures. This disruption can weaken the immune system, making students more likely to contract freshers’ flu. Dr. Burns stresses: “Freshers’ flu can be considered a normal part of going to university, as it’s incredibly common due to increased social interaction in a new environment and being exposed to various mild viral infections. However, the risk of contracting freshers’ flu rises with poor sleep, as it wears down your immune system.”
To maintain health, students are urged to prioritise rest. Dr Burns advises: “Most adults need seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night, not the restricted amounts that are becoming increasingly normalised among students. It’s essential that students manage their caffeine and alcohol intake during the first few weeks of university and establish as much of a consistent sleep schedule as possible. Although it can be difficult to balance late-night socialising and academic expectations, prioritising sleep will help you in the long-term.”
Dr Burns also highlights warning signs that students should not ignore. He states: “Although most dark circles are more cosmetic than sinister, if you have persistent dark circles and experience symptoms like constant fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, shortness of breath, cold hands or feet, a persistent headache, or sudden shifts in appetite, it’s time to seek medical advice.” These symptoms could indicate conditions beyond freshers’ flu, such as dehydration or other medical issues requiring professional evaluation.
To support student wellbeing, universities and health experts are promoting awareness of these signs. The NHS advises students to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. With freshers’ week marking the start of a new academic year, students are encouraged to listen to their bodies and act quickly if they notice persistent changes in their health or appearance.
By keeping a consistent sleep schedule and being alert to physical symptoms, students can better navigate university life while safeguarding their health. Awareness of the link between dark under-eyes, freshers’ flu, and potential health concerns could help prevent serious complications.
