Otomycosis is a fungal infection of the ear, and it is sometimes referred to as otitis externa. This infection can occur in either the outer ear or the ear canal. Symptoms of a fungal infection is the ear include pain, scaly skin, and itching in the affected area. In severe cases, there may be visible fungus and discharge, both of which can cause hearing problems.

Pain is one of the more common signs of a fungal infection in the ear. This is usually very similar to a regular earache. Often, pain associated with a fungal infection will worsen as the infection progresses. Sometimes it may get so severe that it may interrupt a person's sleep.

Dry skin surrounding the affected area is also common during a fungal infection of the ear. This can usually lead to the skin becoming scaly and flaking off. Flaking and scaly skin inside the ear canal can lead to intense itching.

Pruritis is a term that is used to describe itching. Pruritis in the ear is another very common symptom of a fungal infection in the ear. Sometimes this itchy sensation will be felt on the outer ear, and sometimes it may be felt in the ear canal. Itchy sensations in the ear canal can be very frustrating, considering they are so hard to scratch. Care must be taken when doing so to avoid damaging the eardrum.

If a fungal infection in the ear goes untreated, the fungal infection will typically keep getting worse. In some cases, the ear fungus may be visible when looking closely. This will usually be brown or almost black in color, although sometimes it may be a brownish green color.

Along with visible fungus, a person with a fungal infection in the ear may also experience pus or other discharge from the ear. This is usually quite foul smelling. Sometimes it will be visible, but other times a sufferer may not notice it until he cleans his ears with a cotton swab. If the ear drum is punctured, there may also be a bloody discharge from the ear.

A buildup of fungus, wax, and pus can lead to a blockage in the ear canal. Along with a feeling of pressure, this can also lead to temporary hearing problems. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, for example, is another common symptom of a fungal infection in the ear. Some patients may even lose their hearing until the infection is treated.

When treating these types of infections, doctors will usually carefully remove any fungus and other material blocking the ear canal. Typically, antifungal ear drops will then be prescribed. In some cases, corticosteroids may also be prescribed to relieve inflammation and itching.