Otitis externa on the ear of a 36 year old male patient. This condition causes inflammation of the external ear canal. It can be caused by bacterial infection, irritation, fungal infection, allergies and water getting inside the ear regularly. Symptoms of otitis externa can include ear pain, severe itchiness, liquid discharge from the ear and temporary hearing loss. Usually, only one ear is affected. Treatments such as ear drops can ease symptoms in a few days.