Abstract: A system rapidly and accurately assesses the lachrymal fluid content in a person's eye which minimizes patient discomfort. The preferred system includes a fluid sampling device and an assessment device. The preferred sampling device includes a lachrymal fluid absorbent sample pad and a non-absorbent handle. The preferred assessment device includes a receiver for receiving a lachrymal fluid sample pad and includes a control circuit coupled with the receiver for determining the electrical capacitance of the pad which capacitance varies in accordance with variations in lachrymal fluid content, and for producing an output correlated with the lachrymal fluid quantity in the pad.