51. How to Choose an Artificial Tear (Dr. Jacob Rullo)

In this episode Zale speaks with Dr. Jacob Rullo, a clinician and researcher focused on dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction. Dry eye is often treated as a simple lubrication problem, but our understanding of the disease is changing. Dr. Rullo explains the growing importance of meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye, and how the DEWS III framework is changing the way we approach diagnosis and treatment. The conversation focuses on artificial tears — from traditional formulations to newer hyaluronic acid, osmoprotectant and lipid-containing drops — and how clinicians can choose the right tear for the right patient rather than simply reaching for whatever sample is available. They also discuss meibomian gland dysfunction, heat, lid hygiene, IPL and LipiFlow, the limitations of current treatments, and Dr. Rullo's research into restoring meibomian gland function. Finally, they explore how reduced blinking and increasing screen time may be contributing to a growing dry eye problem. This episode is sponsored by **Thea Pharma Canada** - https://theapharma.ca/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.