Shaking (Tremor)
This page will help you answer your questions.
What is a tremor?
A tremor is an involuntary shaking movement in one or more areas of the body, most commonly in the hands, but it may also affect the arms, head, legs, or vocal cords. Tremors can either be steady or temporary. Generally, tremors are not considered severe symptoms or life-threatening.
What are the causes of tremors?
- In general, tremors occur due to a dysfunction in the area of the brain that controls movement; however, the cause is occasionally unknown. Some types are hereditary. Other causes include:
- Behavioral causes, such as excessive caffeine intake or muscular stress.
- Exposure to extremecoldorheat.
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and social phobia.
Some medications, but do not stop any medication without consulting a doctor.
- Tremors canalso occuras partof broadermedical conditions,often accompaniedby othersymptoms:
- Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or brain injury.Essential tremor).
- Essential tremor.
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
- Lifestylechanges.
- Kidney or liver failure.
- Hypoglycemia.Dystonia).
Dystonia.
- How can you manage a tremor? Here are some helpful tips.
- If caffeine is the cause, stop consuming caffeine.
- Mild, non-illness-related tremors often don’t require specific treatment.
Your doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce the shaking if you experience a tremor that interferes with your daily life.
- When should you see a doctor?
- If it interferes with your daily life.
- If the tremor progressively worsens.
- If it is accompanied by changes in mental state or muscle weakness.
- If it is accompanied by difficulty in speech and walking.
If it is accompanied by a rapid heartbeat and agitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the treatment for tremors?
Mild tremors that are not dueto a specific illness oftendo not require special treatment.
- However, there are several treatment options if the tremor persists and is due to specific diseases such as Parkinson’s, and often treatment options aim to reduce or alleviate this tremor.
- Medications.
