A Simple Dry Eye Syndrome Test

Dry Eye SyndromeTry a Sample NIBUT Test

Your eye doctor may ask you to describe your symptoms to determine if you have dry eye syndrome. In addition, your eye doctor may perform one or more tests to confirm a diagnosis of dry eye syndrome and its severity.

Symptomatic Tear Break-up Time Test1

Even before you visit your eye doctor, you can use a simple indicator called the Symptomatic Tear Break-up Time (SBUT)1 test to see if you are possibly suffering from dry eye syndrome. SBUT is determined using the following steps:

  1. Obtain a stop watch or clock;
  2. Blink two (2) times then stare straight ahead, taking care to start timing immediately after your second blink;
  3. Avoid blinking as long as possible;
  4. Note the time on the clock when you begin to feel eye discomfort (burning, grittiness, dryness, etc.);
  5. The SBUT is the amount of time (in seconds) that passes between your last complete blink and the instant you experience eye discomfort.

If your SBUT is five (5) seconds or less, you may have dry eye, because the tear film on your eye(s) is "breaking up" too soon and leaving your eye's surface unprotected. If you think that you have dry eye syndrome, consult your eye doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

1. Nally L, Ousler GW, Abelson MB. Ocular discomfort and tear film break-up time in dry eye patients: a correlation. IOVS 2000 41;4(ARVO Abstract):1436.