What the score means
The SPEED questionnaire adds up how often four dry-eye symptoms occur and how bad they are, from 0 to 28. Up to 5 is comfortable; 6 to 11 is mild; 12 to 19 moderate; 20 and above severe. A score of 6 or more is a reason to have the eyelids and their oil glands looked at, because most dry eye in adults is evaporative: the glands block, the tears evaporate, and drops only wet the surface for a while. How dry eye is assessed and treated here.
Frequently asked questions
What is the SPEED questionnaire?
The Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness is a short, validated symptom score used in eye clinics. Four symptoms are rated for how often they occur and how bad they are; the total runs from 0 to 28.
Is the score a diagnosis?
No. It measures symptoms, not the cause. Dry eye has more than one cause, and only an examination of the eyelids, the oil glands and the tear film can tell which one applies to you.
Why do you ask for my mobile number first?
So your answers are saved as you go. If you are interrupted, you can open this page again and continue from the same question, and if you ask for an appointment we can confirm it on WhatsApp. We do not call or message unless you ask.
What happens to my answers?
They are kept by the hospital for your care, so the dry-eye desk can confirm the slot you ask for and compare your score at later visits. They are not shared or published.
Can I take it again?
Yes. Taking it every two weeks while you follow the home routine shows whether things are moving in the right direction.
Medically reviewed by Dr. H. Siva Mohan Reddy, MBBS, DO, DNB (Ophthalmology). Registered with the Telangana State Medical Council, Reg. No. 57104. Last reviewed 14 October 2026.