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 for hearing loss accompanied by:
Facial weakness, trouble speaking, severe unsteadiness, or weakness on one side
A major head injury
Loss of consciousness or other signs of a neurological emergency
Clear fluid or blood leaking from the ear after injury
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 assessment if hearing drops suddenly over hours or a few days, especially in one ear.
A blocked feeling does not rule out sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Arrange an urgent appointment for severe ear pain, swelling behind the ear, persistent discharge, fever with worsening ear symptoms, or hearing loss with significant dizziness.
Children should be assessed promptly if there are concerns about hearing, speech, language, or responses to sound.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine hearing assessment if hearing has gradually declined, conversations are becoming difficult, or family members regularly notice missed sounds.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Severe hearing loss. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.