Schirmer test

The eye doctor will place the end of a strip of filter paper inside the lower eyelid of each eye. Both eyes are tested at the same time. Before the test, you will be given numbing eye drops to prevent your eyes from tearing due to irritation from the paper strips. The exact procedure may vary. Most often, the eyes are…

You will be asked to remove your glasses or contact lenses before the test.

Some people find that holding the paper against the eye is irritating or mildly uncomfortable. The numbing drops often sting at first.

This test is used when the eye doctor suspects you have dry eye. Symptoms include dryness of the eyes or excessive watering of the eyes.

More than 10 mm of moisture on the filter paper after 5 minutes is a sign of normal tear production. Both eyes normally release the same amount of tears.

Dry eyes may result from: Aging Swelling or inflammation of the eyelids ( blepharitis ) Climate changes Corneal ulcers and infections Eye infections (for example, conjunctivitis ) Laser vision correction Leukemia Lymphoma (cancer of the lymph system) Rheumatoid arthritis Previous eyelid or facial surgery Sjögren…

There are no risks with this test.

Do not rub the eyes for at least 30 minutes after the test. Leave contact lenses out for at least 2 hours after the test. Even though the Schirmer test has been available since 1903, several studies show that it does not properly identify a large group of people with dry eyes. Newer and better tests are being…

Akpek EK, Amescua G, Farid Ml; American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern Cornea and External Disease Panel, et al. Dry eye syndrome Preferred Practice Pattern. Ophthalmology . 2019;126(1):286-334. PMID: 30366798 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30366798/ . Brissette AR, Bohm KJ, Starr CE. Dry eye overview:…