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 if swelling beneath the tongue or in the neck makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, if you cannot swallow your saliva, or if swelling is spreading quickly.
These symptoms can indicate a serious infection or pressure on the airway.
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 urgent same-day medical help if:
Swelling or pain is rapidly worsening
You have a fever or feel significantly unwell
Pus or a foul-tasting discharge comes from the duct
The skin over the gland becomes red and hot
You cannot eat or drink enough because of the pain
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you have repeated swelling or pain around meals, can feel a hard lump under your tongue, or have symptoms that do not settle.
A persistent lump should be examined even if it is not painful.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Salivary duct stones. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.