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 urgent or emergency care for facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, confusion, severe dizziness, swelling spreading quickly around the ear, or severe illness.
These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated swimmer's ear and need immediate assessment.
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
Contact a healthcare professional promptly if:
Symptoms are not improving within 48 to 72 hours of starting treatment
Pain is severe, worsening, or repeatedly wakes you
Redness or swelling spreads outside the ear canal
You develop a fever or feel generally unwell
The canal becomes completely swollen shut
You have diabetes or a weakened immune system and develop ear pain or discharge
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you have ear pain, discharge, increasing itch, or a blocked ear that could be swimmer's ear.
Earlier assessment is sensible if you have had ear surgery, an ear tube, a known hole in the eardrum, or repeated episodes.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Swimmer's ear. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.