Gradenigo's syndrome is characterized by which of the following symptoms?

Gradenigo's syndrome is characterized primarily by a specific triad of symptoms resulting from the spread of an infection, often a middle ear infection, that leads to complications in the cranial structures. The key symptoms include ear pain, which arises from the infection in the ear and the surrounding areas, and double vision, which results from the involvement of the abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI) due to the proximity of the infection to the base of the skull. This combination of symptoms is significant in diagnosing Gradenigo's syndrome, as it reflects the side effects of a serious condition like petrositis or other related otitic complications.

The other options describe symptoms that may occur in various other conditions affecting the ears or balance but do not specifically correlate with the classic presentation of Gradenigo's syndrome. For example, balance problems and dizziness might be more aligned with vestibular disorders, while ringing in the ears and nausea may point to issues like tinnitus or vestibular neuritis, and excessive earwax production does not relate to Gradenigo's syndrome itself. Understanding these differentiating factors is important in accurately diagnosing and treating conditions associated with this syndrome.