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
Seek emergency care for facial weakness, confusion, unusual drowsiness, a severe headache with neck stiffness, a seizure, or marked swelling behind the ear that pushes the ear outward.
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 prompt same-day medical advice for:
New or rapidly worsening hearing loss
Significant ear pain or fever
New dizziness, vomiting, or difficulty walking
Increasing redness, tenderness, or swelling around the ear
Drainage that continues despite prescribed treatment
Symptoms in someone with a weakened immune system
These symptoms do not always mean a severe complication, but they need urgent assessment.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if ear drainage lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or is accompanied by reduced hearing.
Assessment is also appropriate for persistent fullness, a known eardrum perforation, an unpleasant-smelling discharge, or concerns about a child’s hearing or speech.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a symptom that has lasted more than a couple of weeks without improving
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ear infection - chronic. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.