Schirmer tear test: testing the amount of tears secreted

The Schirmer tear test is one of the basic tests used in ophthalmology to assess tear production and the function of the lacrimal apparatus. This is a simple and non-invasive method that allows you to determine the amount of tears secreted by the eyes over a period of time. In this article we will discuss the physiological significance of the Schirmer tear test, its procedure, results and what conditions must be met when performing it.

Repetitive eye blinks – physiological significance

Initially, it may seem that the amount of tears secreted by our eyes is not an important parameter. However, adequate amounts of tears are crucial to maintaining proper eye health. Tears perform many important functions:

• They protect against dry eyes
• They provide optimal optical conditions for vision
• They cleanse the surface of the eye from dust particles and microorganisms

Repeated blinking of the eyelids evenly distributes tears on the eye surface, which is necessary to maintain visual comfort and prevent potential infections or irritations.

Measurement of the amount of tears secreted

The Schirmer tear test is relatively simple and does not require complex equipment. During the examination, a thin strip of paper or tissue paper is placed on the patient’s lower eyelid. This process is painless and non-invasive. After a few minutes, the strip is removed and the doctor measures how many tears have been absorbed by the strip.

The resulting value is measured in millimeters or milliliters per minute. Normal values are 10 to 15 mm/ml per minute. If the result is lower, it may indicate a problem with tear production or a disruption in the functioning of the lacrimal apparatus.

Conditions for performing the test

To obtain accurate Schirmer tear test results, appropriate conditions must be maintained. Here are some factors that may influence the test result:

• The patient should be in a calm and relaxed state.
• The test is best performed in moderately humid conditions, avoiding drafts.
• If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before the test.
• It is also a good idea to avoid using eye drops on the day of the test unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Your suggestions

If you undergo the Schirmer tear test, it is important to be honest with your eye doctor with all information about your eye health and any medications or contact lenses you use. This will help your doctor interpret the results and determine possible diagnostic or therapeutic measures.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about eye health, we recommend you read the following articles:

• How to take care of your eyes every day: Tips and tricks
• Dry eye symptoms and treatment
• Eye diseases: The most common diseases and their symptoms

The Schirmer tear test is an important tool in diagnosing eye health. Regular eye examinations allow you to detect possible problems early and take appropriate actions. By taking care of the condition of our eyes, we can enjoy healthy and comfortable eyesight for many years.