What are the primary symptoms of otitis externa?

The primary symptoms of otitis externa, often referred to as swimmer's ear, include ear pain, itching, and discharge. This condition typically arises due to inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal, which can result from moisture and bacteria.

Ear pain is a hallmark symptom, usually described as sharp or throbbing, and can intensify with manipulation of the ear or jaw. Itching is another common symptom, often due to irritation of the skin in the ear canal. The discharge can vary from clear to purulent, indicating the type and severity of the infection. Unlike other conditions affecting the head and neck, the absence of systemic symptoms like fever in cases of simple otitis externa reaffirms that the primary manifestations are localized to the ear.

Other options, while related to different ENT conditions, do not accurately represent the key symptoms associated with otitis externa. Hearing loss and tinnitus relate more to middle or inner ear issues, throat pain and cough suggest conditions like pharyngitis or a respiratory infection, and nasal congestion and fever pertain to upper respiratory infections or sinusitis.