What is a common chief complaint in cases of conjunctivitis?

A common chief complaint in cases of conjunctivitis is eye redness. This symptom occurs due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the eyelids. In conjunctivitis, blood vessels in the conjunctiva become dilated, leading to the characteristic redness. Additionally, patients may report discomfort, discharge, and tearing, but eye redness is typically the most noticeable and concerning aspect that prompts individuals to seek medical attention. The prominence of this symptom makes it a key indicator for diagnosing conjunctivitis compared to other unrelated symptoms.