Overview
Tremors are common and have many causes. Essential tremor is the most common type and is not usually serious, but it can affect daily tasks.
Symptoms
- Shaking of the hands, arms, head, legs or voice
- Tremor when holding a cup or writing
- Tremor at rest, which may suggest Parkinson's disease
- Tremor that gets worse with stress, caffeine or tiredness
Causes and risk factors
Causes include essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, an overactive thyroid, some medicines, caffeine, alcohol withdrawal, anxiety, low blood sugar and multiple sclerosis.
Diagnosis
A neurologist examines the type of tremor. Blood tests, such as thyroid tests, and sometimes brain scans help find the cause.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and may include avoiding triggers, medicines such as beta-blockers, occupational therapy and, for severe cases, deep brain stimulation or focused ultrasound.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a tremor affects daily life, starts suddenly or comes with stiffness, slowness or other symptoms.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
