How does otitis media differ from otitis externa in terms of symptoms and causes?

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear characterized by fluid accumulation, often caused by a malfunction of the auditory tube or infections from the upper respiratory tract. In contrast, otitis externa is inflammation of the external auditory canal, typically resulting from fungal or bacterial infections, and is commonly known as swimmer's ear.

Otitis media usually affects children and can lead to hearing loss if untreated, with symptoms including ear pain and fever. It is often caused by issues with the auditory tube or infections spreading from the upper respiratory tract. On the other hand, otitis externa primarily affects the external auditory canal and is often linked to environmental factors such as swimming, leading to symptoms like itching, redness, and discharge from the ear.