Which of the following is NOT a symptom of acute otitis media?

Acute otitis media (AOM) is characterized by the rapid onset of inflammation and infection in the middle ear, which typically presents with certain classic symptoms. Fever is common as the body mounts an immune response, and an earache is also a hallmark symptom due to inflammation and pressure in the ear. Furthermore, difficulty hearing is frequently reported because fluid accumulation in the middle ear can impede sound transmission.

In contrast, itchy ears are not typical of acute otitis media. While itching may be associated with other conditions, such as allergic reactions or external ear infections (like otitis externa), it does not signify the presence of an infection in the middle ear. Hence, recognizing that itching is not a common symptom of AOM helps differentiate it from other ear-related issues. This understanding is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.