Diagnosis of dry eye syndrome involves an analysis of the quantity and quality of one’s tears. Patient history is an important aspect of such diagnosis.

The tear break-up test (TBT) is a measure of the amount of time it takes for tears to break up in the eye. Dyes, such as fluorescein or rose Bengal, can also be used to stain the surface of the eye and determine how much it is affected by dryness. The Shirmer test uses a small strip of paper which is inserted in the eye, on the edge of the lower lids. The paper film is then removed and examined to measure the amount of moisture.