Tremor or shaking hands
A tremor is when you cannot control your trembling or shaking hand. Consult a doctor if a tremor impacts your daily life; they may suggest treatments to reduce those episodes.
Is tremor normal?
Slight tremors are usual; for example, if you hold your arms or hands out in front and they aren’t completely still. In some instances, tremor becomes noticeable and impact daily activities, which often happens when:
- You are older
- You are tired, anxious, stressed, or angry
- Smoking or drinking caffeine
- You are hot or cold
Certain medications can also cause tremors; consult your doctor before stopping any prescribed medicines.
Consult a doctor if
If you develop a tremor or shaking hands and:
- It gets severe over time
- It affects your everyday activities
The doctor will make sure to figure out the reason behind the condition and will offer treatments accordingly.
The doctor will examine and ask:
- Whether you have other symptoms
- If you are under any medications
- Regarding your and your family’s medical history
Mild tremors that are not due to any conditions don’t require any treatments, but the doctor will suggest monitoring the symptoms.
The doctor might refer you a specialist for further tests if they think the reason behind the condition is Parkinson’s disease.
Tremor or shaking hands treatments
If tremors affect your life, the doctor might prescribe medications, but they will not cure symptoms; they just reduce the trembling and shaking. The doctor may prescribe taking medicine all the time or during the triggers.
If tremors affect the head or voice, the doctor will offer injections to block the nerves and relax muscles. In rare instances, severe tremor requires brain surgery.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022