Don’t Ignore Eye Pain After Staying Up Late—It Could Be “Eyelash Syndrome”

With the pace of life accelerating, many young people have developed the habit of staying up late, which often leads to red and sore eyes. They may assume this is simply due to eye strain or lack of rest, but is that really the case?

While eye conditions such as eye strain and conjunctivitis can indeed cause redness and pain, there is a specific eye condition that, if not treated properly, can result in severe damage to eye function: iridocyclitis.

Some may ask, “Isn’t it just red eyes? I haven’t been getting enough rest lately—how could it be Glaucomatous Cyclitis Syndrome?” What exactly is this condition? Why do people develop it? What are the risks? And how is it treated? To address these questions, Dr. Deng Jiangwen, Director of the Glaucoma Department at Dongguan Aier Eye Hospital, is here to provide answers.

Glaucomatous Cyclitis Syndrome (GCS), commonly known as GCS, is a recurrent form of open-angle glaucoma accompanied by mild iridocyclitis. This specific type of glaucoma is most common in young and middle-aged adults aged 20 to 50. It typically affects only one eye and is classified as a “mild form of glaucoma.” During an attack, patients experience only mild discomfort and occasionally mild blurred vision; however, between attacks, both intraocular pressure and ocular signs are completely normal.

Because it lacks the systemic symptoms—such as headache, nausea, and vomiting—often associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma attacks, it is sometimes mistaken for “eye strain” and goes undiagnosed or untreated. However, a defining characteristic of Iridocyclitis Syndrome is its tendency to recur. Much like a cold, it may flare up when your health is compromised. Without proper treatment, it can lead to typical glaucomatous visual field damage.

Clinical Features of Iridocyclitis Syndrome

Most commonly affects young and middle-aged adults with a history of previous episodes;

Often affects only one eye;

Mild ocular discomfort or asymptomatic;

In the early stages, vision may be affected, with blurred or hazy vision;

Mild inflammation or no inflammatory response in the anterior segment;

The exact cause of iridocyclitis syndrome is not yet fully understood, but it may be associated with the following factors: infection, immunogenetics, vascular dysfunction, inflammatory mediators, and systemic diseases. Anxiety and depression can lead to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, manifesting as difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and irritability. Over time, this can affect the immune system and ultimately trigger the onset of iridocyclitis syndrome. Literature suggests that it may be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

How to Treat Iridocyclitis

1. Medical Treatment

During an episode, topical corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops are applied to control the progression of inflammation. When intraocular pressure is elevated, eye drops that lower intraocular pressure are administered; antiviral eye drops such as ribavirin or ganciclovir may also be added. Medication cannot prevent recurrence of this condition, and corticosteroids should not be used for extended periods. Medications must be used correctly under a doctor’s supervision to avoid corticosteroid-induced glaucoma.

2. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is generally not the first-line treatment for Trichiasis Syndrome, as it cannot prevent recurrence. Close observation and long-term follow-up are essential. If medication fails to control the condition and visual function is impaired, surgical treatment may be considered when necessary.

3. Self-Management and Psychological Counseling

For some patients, psychological counseling can help them actively relieve stress, adjust their mindset, engage in appropriate physical exercise, improve sleep, avoid overexertion, and boost their immune system—all of which can help prevent the recurrence of iridocyclitis.

Therefore, iridocyclitis is both preventable and manageable, but it requires standardized treatment. Having iridocyclitis is not something to fear; the key is to follow medical advice and take medication as prescribed. Be cautious in daily life, keep a relaxed mindset, exercise regularly in the morning and evening, get adequate sleep, and boost your immunity—and the disease will stay away from you.