Discomfort limited to the external auditory canal is the most characteristic symptom.
Thorough cleansing of the external auditory canal whenever possible is essential for diagnosis and treatment, but flushing should be avoided.
Look for signs and symptoms indicating that the process extends beyond the external auditory canal, including:
	Evidence of associated otitis media on otoscopic examination.
	Severe pain or granulation of the external auditory canal in patients with diabetes or those who are immunocompromised
	Evidence of an underlying systemic dermatologic process.
Avoid moisture and trauma in the external auditory canal to prevent recurrence.
Acidification with 2 percent acetic acid combined with hydrocortisone (VoSoL HC Otic) for inflammation is effective treatment in most cases and, when used after exposure to moisture, is an excellent prophylactic.