What is the primary purpose of the Schirmer test?

The primary purpose of the Schirmer test is to measure tear production. This test helps evaluate the gland's ability to produce tears, which is essential for maintaining eye lubrication, comfort, and health. A small strip of filter paper is placed inside the lower eyelid, and after a specified time, the amount of wetting on the strip is measured. This indicates the volume of tears produced by the lacrimal glands.

Tear production is crucial for diagnosing dry eye conditions and other ocular surface diseases. By understanding tear production levels, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding treatment options for patients experiencing symptoms of dry eyes or related issues.

The other options focus on different aspects of eye health, such as intraocular pressure, color vision, and corneal thickness, which are not the primary function of the Schirmer test. Each of these assessments serves a different purpose in ophthalmic evaluation, but they do not relate directly to measuring tear production.