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
These signs are not always emergencies, but they may require a swallowing assessment or further neurological investigation.
Call emergency services for sudden symptoms that could indicate a stroke, including:
Face drooping or weakness on one side
Sudden arm or leg weakness or numbness
Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden severe loss of balance or vision
A sudden, unusually severe headache
Emergency help is also needed if you cannot breathe, cannot swallow saliva, are choking, or become suddenly confused or unresponsive.
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 prompt medical advice if symptoms are worsening, you are losing weight, you often cough during meals, or balance problems are leading to falls.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical assessment if you develop repeated ear clicking, visible palate movement, persistent throat fluttering, or unexplained changes in speech or swallowing.
New palatal tremor generally deserves evaluation even when it is painless.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Palatal myoclonus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.