If you have dark brown or black lumps, tiny in size and multiple in number, sitting on the cheekbones and under the eyes, it’s likely you have dermatosis papulosa nigra. Despite the grand title, these are completely harmless. These usually feel smooth and soft and are each only 1 to 5 mm wide, and you may have a few or many, of differing sizes. They appear from the teenage years onwards and don't usually cause any symptoms, but some find them unsightly, especially with their prominence on the face.

You know when the pollen season has arrived if you suffer from itchy, streaming eyes that look red and puffy. It can be uncomfortable, and you feel desperate for some relief. Our pharmacist has put together some remedies to help soothe your eyes and heal your eye symptoms.

Uveitis is when part of the eye suddenly becomes inflamed, giving you a very painful, red eye. You might also experience discomfort in bright light (photophobia), blurring, or reduced vision. It's important to seek help and get this treated promptly, as severe cases can lead to a loss of sight. Uveitis affects the middle layer of the eyeball, including the iris, which gives your eye its unique color, a muscle behind the iris called the ciliary body, and a layer called the choroid. Most cases of uveitis affect just one eye, but it can affect the other later on. Most cases are acute, meaning it comes on suddenly, and lasts for a few days, although it can be a few weeks. Some people get repeated episodes, and others have an ongoing inflammation, known as chronic uveitis, which is defined as lasting more than six months. Uveitis can come out of the blue, and we don't know what has caused it. An autoimmune process may be behind it, where your body attacks certain parts of itself, and this may go along with certain other conditions. Other triggers include an eye infection or injury. If you wear contact lenses, you should switch to your glasses as soon as possible. Sunglasses may make you feel more comfortable when in daylight. Uveitis puts you at a higher risk of developing glaucoma or cataracts in the long term, so make sure you get regular eye checks.

Symptoms of dry eyes may include: Dryness: A sensation of dryness or grittiness in the eyes is a hallmark symptom of dry eyes. This can be accompanied by a feeling of irritation or discomfort. Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot, particularly when they become irritated due to dryness. Burning or stinging: Some individuals with dry eyes may experience a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, especially in environments with low humidity or when exposed to irritants such as smoke or wind. Blurry vision: Dry eyes can cause temporary fluctuations in vision, leading to blurry or fluctuating vision, particularly during activities that require prolonged visual concentration, such as reading or using a computer. Sensitivity to light: Dry eyes may increase sensitivity to light, making it uncomfortable to be in brightly lit environments. Watery eyes: Paradoxically, some people with dry eyes may experience excessive tearing as the eyes attempt to compensate for the lack of adequate lubrication. Several factors can contribute to the development of dry eyes, including: Ageing**: Dry eyes are more common as people age, as tear production tends to decrease with age. Environmental factors**: Exposure to dry or windy climates, air conditioning, heating, and smoke can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Medical conditions**: Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), hormonal changes (e.g., menopause), and eyelid abnormalities, can increase the risk of dry eyes. Medications**: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormonal therapies, can reduce tear production or affect tear composition, leading to dry eyes. Prolonged screen time**: Extended use of digital devices can contribute to dry eyes due to reduced blinking and increased tear evaporation. Contact lens wear**: Contact lens use can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, particularly if lenses are worn for extended periods or if proper hygiene practices are not followed.