Otitis externa is more common and less dangerous than otitis media. However, it can cause discomfort with symptoms of itchy ears, ear pain, tinnitus or ear discharge... If otitis externa is not treated promptly, it can affect hearing. The main cause of otitis externa is due to the ear coming into contact with dirty water in swimming pools or ponds and some other causes.

Otitis externa is an acute or chronic inflammatory condition that occurs in all ages and is common in hot and humid climates like Vietnam. The disease can also occur due to a polluted environment or the habit of cleaning the ears with unclean tools that scratch the protective skin of the ear canal, creating conditions for bacteria and fungi to invade and cause inflammation.

Otitis externa is a common condition, especially in children and swimmers. Although it is not as dangerous as otitis media, if not treated promptly, it can affect the child's hearing later in life.