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 help after an injury if the elbow looks badly bent or out of place, a bone is visible, or bleeding will not stop.
Emergency care is also needed if the hand becomes cold, pale, blue, very numb, or suddenly weak.
Call emergency services if elbow or arm discomfort occurs with chest pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, faintness, or nausea.
These symptoms can sometimes come from the heart rather than the elbow.
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
Arrange same-day medical care if:
The elbow is hot, red, and swollen, particularly with fever
Severe pain or swelling develops quickly
You cannot move the elbow after a fall or impact
A cut, bite, injection, or recent procedure is followed by increasing redness or pain
New numbness, tingling, or weakness is getting worse
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if pain lasts more than about two weeks despite self-care, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, or limits work and daily activities.
You should also be assessed if swelling does not settle or the elbow repeatedly locks or gives way.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Elbow pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.