What initial approach should be taken for a patient experiencing symptoms of conjunctivitis?

For a patient experiencing symptoms of conjunctivitis, the initial approach of observation and supportive care is appropriate because most cases of conjunctivitis, especially viral conjunctivitis, are self-limiting. This means the condition often resolves on its own without the need for invasive interventions or aggressive treatments. Supportive care may include recommendations for warm or cool compresses, artificial tears to alleviate discomfort, and good hygiene practices to prevent spreading the infection.

In bacterial conjunctivitis, which can sometimes require treatment, observation and supportive measures can still be the first step while the clinician assesses the severity and ruling out complications. In many cases, if symptoms improve with supportive measures alone, no additional treatment may be necessary.

Other options, such as immediate surgery or intravenous antibiotics, are not suitable initial approaches for conjunctivitis. Surgery would typically be warranted for more serious conditions, such as if there were underlying structural issues or complications. Long-term oral medication does not align with the acute management of conjunctivitis, as most cases do not require prolonged systemic treatment. Instead, topical treatments may be used when necessary. Thus, the emphasis on observation and supportive care supports an effective and patient-centered response to conjunctivitis symptoms.