What symptom is associated with otitis externa?

Otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear, is characterized primarily as an infection of the external ear canal. This condition typically presents with symptoms such as pain, itching, and discharge from the ear, all of which stem from the inflammation that occurs when the ear canal becomes infected, usually from water exposure or bacteria.

Choosing the option that indicates an external ear infection aligns with the definition of otitis externa, as the condition directly involves inflammation and infection of the skin lining the external ear canal. Symptoms like ear pain are indeed associated with the condition, but they are more of a result of the underlying infection and inflammation rather than defining features of otitis externa itself. Similarly, while inflammation of the skin is also relevant, it describes a broader situation that could involve various conditions, not solely otitis externa. Therefore, identifying it specifically as an external ear infection accurately captures the essence of the ailment.