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Warning-sign checks

Tremor: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if a tremor begins suddenly with signs that could indicate a stroke or another serious brain problem:

    • Weakness or numbness on one side
    • A drooping face or difficulty speaking
    • Severe confusion, collapse, or loss of consciousness
    • A sudden severe headache or major loss of balance
    • A recent significant head injury

    Emergency help is also appropriate if shaking follows a possible poisoning or overdose, or occurs with seizures, severe breathing difficulty, or severe alcohol or sedative withdrawal.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice for a sudden new tremor without an obvious explanation, especially after starting or changing a medicine.

    If you have diabetes and shaking may be due to low blood sugar, follow your personal treatment plan.

    Get urgent help if symptoms do not improve promptly or you cannot safely eat or drink.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if the tremor persists, becomes more noticeable, or affects eating, drinking, writing, walking, work, or other activities.

    You should also arrange an assessment if it occurs with stiffness, slower movement, balance problems, unexplained weight loss, or a racing heartbeat.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tremor. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.