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 a tremor begins suddenly with facial drooping, weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, severe confusion, loss of coordination, or a sudden severe headache.
These can be signs of a stroke or another neurological emergency.
Emergency help is also needed if shaking occurs with a seizure, loss of consciousness, severe breathing difficulty, or suspected poisoning.
If someone with diabetes is confused, cannot safely swallow, or does not recover after following their established low-blood-sugar plan, seek emergency care.
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
Arrange urgent same-day medical advice if the tremor is rapidly worsening or follows a medicine or substance change and is accompanied by fever, marked agitation, heavy sweating, repeated vomiting, or a very fast heartbeat.
New shaking during possible alcohol withdrawal also needs prompt assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if the tremor:
Persists or gradually becomes more noticeable
Interferes with eating, drinking, writing, work, or personal care
Occurs with stiffness, slowed movement, balance problems, or weight loss
Started after beginning or changing a medicine
Causes concern even if daily activities remain manageable
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Postural tremor. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.