What is a Tremor?

A tremor is a condition when a part of your body shakes or wobbles without you wanting it to. It’s like when you’re cold and your hands shake, but tremors can happen for different reasons.

It can happen in your hands, arms, legs, or even your head. Tremors can make it hard to do everyday things like eating or writing. Doctors can help figure out why you have a tremor and find ways to make it better if needed.

If you or someone you know experiences tremors, it’s essential to consult a doctor. They can determine the cause of the tremor and recommend appropriate treatments or therapies to manage or reduce it, depending on the underlying cause.

Symptoms of Tremor

Tremors can have various symptoms, and they often involve uncontrollable shaking or trembling of a body part. Here are some common symptoms:

• Tremors can sometimes be triggered or worsened by stress or anxiety.
• The most noticeable sign of a tremor is the shaking of a limb, like a hand, arm, or leg. It can also affect the head or voice.
• Tremors can range from mild, where it’s just a subtle shake, to severe, where it’s very noticeable and can interfere with daily activities.
•  Tremors can come and go. They might be more noticeable on some days and less on others.

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for a proper evaluation to determine the cause and explore treatment options if necessary.

Causes of Tremor

Tremors can happen for various reasons, and here are some common causes:

•  High levels of stress or anxiety can make your body shake temporarily.
• Certain medications, like stimulants or mood-altering medicines, can cause tremors as a side effect.
• If someone who drinks heavily suddenly stops, they may experience tremors as part of alcohol withdrawal.
• Some medical conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, or brain injuries can result in tremors.
• A neurodegenerative condition that affects the brain’s ability to control movement. Tremors are a classic symptom and typically start on one side of the body.

Treatment of Tremor

Tremor treatment depends on the cause. For essential tremors, doctors may prescribe medications to reduce shaking. In severe cases, surgery like deep brain stimulation can help.

For tremors due to other conditions, treating the underlying issue may reduce or stop the tremor. Physical therapy and lifestyle changes can also help manage tremors.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist