Schirmer Strips

This diagnostic strip made from the Whatman No 41 filter paper measures the amount of tear production. These strips are individually wrapped and are gauged so they can be easily read. The Schirmer test is based upon mechanical reflex stimulation of the tear production and is actually a test of reflex tear production when performed without anesthesia. Place a dry Schirmer strip over the middle to lateral 1/3 of the lower eyelid. The patient is then instructed to look forward and blink normally. The strip is removed after 5 minutes and amount of wetting is recorded in millimeters.