You diagnose a patient with viral conjunctivitis. What treatment should you recommend?

In cases of viral conjunctivitis, the primary approach to treatment focuses on supportive care rather than the use of antibiotics or antiviral medications. This is because viral conjunctivitis, often caused by adenoviruses, typically resolves on its own without the need for specific antiviral treatment.

Supportive measures include recommending artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to relieve discomfort and dryness. Cold compresses can also be helpful in alleviating symptoms associated with inflammation and irritation. These interventions aim to provide comfort and improve the patient's experience while the body's immune system clears the virus naturally.

Medications such as gentamicin or ciprofloxacin, which are antibiotic eye drops, are not appropriate for viral conjunctivitis since they target bacterial infections. Similarly, oral erythromycin is intended for bacterial infections, not viral ones, and would not have an effect on viral conjunctivitis. Therefore, the recommendation of supportive measures and lubricating drops is the most suitable approach in managing this condition effectively.