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 sudden tremor occurs with facial drooping, one-sided weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, severe loss of balance, confusion, loss of consciousness, or a sudden severe headache.
These can signal a stroke or another emergency and should not be attributed to familial tremor.
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 urgent medical advice for a tremor that begins suddenly, especially if it is very different from previous symptoms.
Sudden shaking is not the usual pattern of familial essential tremor.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Make a routine appointment if you develop a persistent tremor, even if relatives have similar symptoms.
An assessment can check whether the pattern fits essential tremor and look for treatable causes.
Also arrange a review if:
Tremor interferes with daily tasks or social activities
It started after a medicine or supplement change
You develop stiffness, slowed movement, balance problems, or frequent falls
Your current treatment no longer helps or causes side effects
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Familial tremor. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.