Tremors and Shaking

Tremors and shaking are involuntary movements that occur in one area of the body. Most commonly, tremors and shaking affect the hands, arms, and head. When the tremors are severe, they can make normal tasks like drinking water, taking a note, or holding a piece of paper difficult. In the majority of cases, the tremors are not caused by Parkinson’s disease. Unfortunately, when a genetic issue is not causing the tremors and shaking, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the issue.

Topic at a Glance

  • Tremors are involuntary movements that most often affect the hands, arms, and head, and can make tasks like drinking, writing, or holding paper difficult.
  • In the majority of cases, tremors are not caused by Parkinson’s disease.
  • Possible causes include multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain injury, degenerative brain diseases, excessive alcohol or drug use, thyroid issues, and liver failure, though many tremors have no known cause.
  • Treatment depends on the cause and may include specific medications when Parkinson’s is involved, or physical therapy and medication to help manage tremors.

Symptoms of Tremors

Tremors may occur differently for each individual. Some characteristics of tremors may include:

 

• Rhythmic shaking of the hands, arms, legs, and head

• Difficulty writing

• Shaky voice

• Difficulty holding items

Tremors and shaking can occur at any age but are most likely to happen as a person ages. The tremors may be constant, occasional, or can increase with stress. The condition is just as likely to affect men as it is to affect women.

Causes of Tremors

Tremors can be caused by a number of neurological conditions that impact the parts of the brain that are responsible for movement. Neurological causes of tremors include:

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Stroke

• Brain injury

• Degenerative brain diseases

Other medical conditions that can result in tremors include:

• Excessive use of alcohol or recreational drugs

• Thyroid issues

• Liver failure

Many instances of tremors have no known cause, making treatment difficult.

Treatment of Tremors

Treatment of tremors can be difficult, especially when the root cause of the issue is unknown. If Parkinson’s is the cause, there are specific medications that can address that issue. In other instances, physical therapy and medication can help to manage tremors.

For assistance diagnosing the root cause of your tremors and shakes and to begin a treatment plan to address the issue, contact the specialists at Cayman Neurology and Pain Management today.

FAQs About Tremors and Shaking

What are the symptoms of tremors?

Symptoms can include rhythmic shaking of the hands, arms, legs, or head, a shaky voice, difficulty writing, and trouble holding items.

No. In the majority of cases, tremors are not caused by Parkinson’s disease.

Tremors can happen at any age but are most likely as people get older. Men and women are equally likely to be affected.

Yes. Tremors may be constant or occasional, and they can increase with stress.

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