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 emergency help for trouble breathing, choking, a serious head or neck injury, loss of consciousness, or immediate danger of severe self-injury.
If there are thoughts of suicide or an immediate risk of self-harm, contact local emergency services or a crisis service immediately.
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 a prompt medical review if:
A tic causes pain, bleeding, repeated falls, or other injury
Movements begin suddenly after starting or changing a medicine
Anxiety, obsessive thoughts, low mood, or sleep problems are worsening
Tics are making eating, speaking, school, work, or driving unsafe
Treatment appears ineffective or causes troublesome side effects
Loss of consciousness is not a typical tic and needs urgent assessment.
This is urgent regardless of whether the person has Tourette syndrome.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if repeated movements or sounds have lasted for several weeks, are becoming more frequent, or are affecting comfort, education, work, sleep, or relationships.
An assessment can clarify whether they are tics and check for related concerns.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tourette syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.