What symptom might suggest an external ear infection?

The symptom of redness and itching is a notable indicator of an external ear infection, often referred to as otitis externa. These symptoms arise due to inflammation and irritation of the external ear canal, which can result from bacterial or fungal infection, exposure to moisture, or allergic reactions. The redness indicates inflammation, while itching suggests irritation within the ear canal, both of which are hallmark signs of an external ear infection.

In contrast, while clear fluid discharge can occur with ear infections, it is not as specific to external ear infections as redness and itching. Pain during chewing may point to issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or other dental problems rather than an external ear infection, and persistent dizziness is more commonly associated with inner ear conditions or vestibular system disorders rather than the external ear. Therefore, redness and itching serve as the most telling symptoms for identifying an external ear infection.