Question 1

How do I prepare for a Schirmer's test?

Accepted Answer

Quick test that measures tear production by placing small strips of special paper on the lower eyelid.

Question 2

What do I need to know before a Schirmer's test?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** A quick test that measures tear production by placing small strips of special paper on the lower eyelid.
• **Fasting:** No fasting necessary. You can eat your usual food and drink water or liquids normally before coming to your appointment.
• **Medication:** You should maintain and take your usual medication. However, it is very important that you avoid applying artificial tears, gels, or lubricating eye drops at least 2 hours before the test, always remembering that any doubt or adjustment in your treatments should be discussed beforehand with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** You can wear the clothes you feel most comfortable in. There is absolutely no restriction on metals, jewelry, piercings, facial makeup, or watches for this exam.
• **Specific Requirements:** The main requirement is that, if you use contact lenses, you must remove them before starting the test; therefore, we suggest taking your case and liquid, or coming directly with your glasses. Additionally, it is important that you try not to rub your eyes in the hours before the consultation so as not to alter your natural tear production.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** It is a very safe procedure and causes no pain, but it can be a bit uncomfortable. During the 5 minutes the test lasts, you will feel the paper touching the edge of the eye, which produces a sensation similar to having an eyelash or sand inside, causing natural tearing. In some cases, the doctor may apply a drop of anesthesia before placing the strips; if so, you will feel a very slight sting that lasts just a couple of seconds and then you will not notice the paper at any time.

Question 3

What do I have to do before a Schirmer's test?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** A quick test that measures tear production by placing small strips of special paper on the lower eyelid.
• **Fasting:** No fasting necessary. You can eat your usual food and drink water or liquids normally before coming to your appointment.
• **Medication:** You should maintain and take your usual medication. However, it is very important that you avoid applying artificial tears, gels, or lubricating eye drops at least 2 hours before the test, always remembering that any doubt or adjustment in your treatments should be discussed beforehand with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** You can wear the clothes you feel most comfortable in. There is absolutely no restriction on metals, jewelry, piercings, facial makeup, or watches for this exam.
• **Specific Requirements:** The main requirement is that, if you use contact lenses, you must remove them before starting the test; therefore, we suggest taking your case and liquid, or coming directly with your glasses. Additionally, it is important that you try not to rub your eyes in the hours before the consultation so as not to alter your natural tear production.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** It is a very safe procedure and causes no pain, but it can be a bit uncomfortable. During the 5 minutes the test lasts, you will feel the paper touching the edge of the eye, which produces a sensation similar to having an eyelash or sand inside, causing natural tearing. In some cases, the doctor may apply a drop of anesthesia before placing the strips; if so, you will feel a very slight sting that lasts just a couple of seconds and then you will not notice the paper at any time.

General instructions for Schirmer's test

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