My ear began to hurt and started to swell rapidly due to an infection. The infection/swelling started to spread down my neck (in a space of 24 hours). I went to a pharmacy to see if there were any over the counter anti-biotics, but the pharmicists were alarmed at my condition & took me to the hospital. The concern was due to the proximity of the swelling to my head, lymphatic system & major blood vessels. The infection could have easily spread to other parts of my body, including my brain. The doctor examined me and administered medication to stop the viral infection from spreading.