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
Call emergency services or go to an emergency department if you become confused, faint, severely weak, have trouble breathing, or develop other signs of severe illness.
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 assessment for a painful, warm, or swollen outer ear, especially after a cartilage piercing, injury, burn, or ear procedure.
Do not wait for pus to appear.
Early treatment helps protect the cartilage.
Seek urgent medical care if:
Swelling or pain is rapidly increasing
There is pus or a soft, fluid-filled swelling
The ear is becoming dark, pale, blistered, or misshapen
Redness or swelling is spreading onto the face or scalp
You have fever or feel generally unwell
Symptoms are worsening despite antibiotic treatment
You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
These are not routine features of perichondritis but can occur with a serious spreading infection.
Routine follow-up is still important once treatment has started.
Attend planned reviews even if symptoms are improving, particularly if an abscess was drained or a dressing was placed.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Perichondritis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.