Dry eye syndrome is a common condition caused by either a lack of tear production or a deficiency in the makeup of the tears. While many people experience dry eye symptoms, very few are aware that testing for dry eye is available. So, how do you test for and diagnose dry eyes?

One common method to diagnose dry eye is the Schirmer’s test. It is a quick, simple way to measure your eyes’ moisture level. Read more to learn how the Schirmer’s test works, why it’s performed and how to interpret your results. 

What is the Schirmer’s test?

The Schirmer’s test, named after German medical researcher Otto Schirmer, was created as a way to diagnose dry eye syndrome, although it can also be used to detect an overproduction of tears. (Schirmer’s test is also known as the dry eye test, the tear — or tearing — test and the basal secretion test.)

The eyes’ natural tears are produced by special cells in the conjunctiva and by the lacrimal and meibomian glands. These glands in the eyelids generate and release the oily and watery components of tears that keep the eyes moist and comfortable. They also help flush out debris or foreign bodies that may enter the eye. 

If one or both of these types of glands aren’t working properly, your tears may fail to fully clean or moisturize your eyes. This can lead to redness, burning and grittiness — all symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

A Schirmer’s test is not typically performed during a routine eye check unless the patient exhibits dry eye symptoms or an overproduction of tears.