Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Go to an emergency department now if:
Clear, watery, or bloody fluid appears after a head injury
A button battery may be inside the ear
Discharge occurs with confusion, extreme drowsiness, a stiff neck, or severe headache
You have new facial weakness or other stroke-like symptoms
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek same-day medical advice for redness, severe tenderness, or swelling behind the ear, especially if the ear appears pushed forward.
Also get prompt help for severe or worsening pain, high fever, sudden major hearing loss, marked dizziness, or repeated vomiting.
Same-day assessment is important if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system with significant ear pain or discharge, because ear-canal infections can become more serious.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if discharge persists, returns, smells unpleasant, or affects hearing.
Arrange an examination after any suspected eardrum injury, even if pain is mild.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ear discharge. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.