Hand tremors involve the involuntary shaking of one or both extremities. Illness, stress, and even caffeine are among some of the causes. Treatment for hand tremors varies depending on the culprit of the disorder, and include medication or home care. It also depends on how greatly the shaking interferes with everyday activities. Most of the care options work for different types of hand tremors.
Before prescribing treatment for tremors, the doctor and patient must first determine what causes the involuntary movement in the first place. Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, or alcohol withdrawal, may sometimes cause hand tremors. Stress and fatigue, as well as certain emotions like fear, anger, or anxiety, may trigger the condition. Some prescription medications may cause tremors, while illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis cause the involuntary shaking in the hands or other body parts such as the leg or head. Other possible causes run the gamut from low blood sugar to a brain tumor to normal aging.
Once a doctor rules out a cause, treatment options vary accordingly. If the involuntary movement is caused by caffeine or alcohol, for example, then reducing or eliminating the beverages may work. Hand tremors brought on by anxiety or stress require the patient to try some relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation. If specific medications trigger the tremors, then the doctor may consider changing the dosage or the prescription altogether. Involuntary shaking caused by illness such as Parkinson’s disease usually requires some form of medication to control the symptoms.
In addition to treatment, assistive devices may alleviate severe cases of tremors for some people. Using button hooks or fasteners may prove helpful in dealing with tremors in the hands. If eating or drinking poses a challenge because of tremors, then experts recommend using a straw or utensils with larger handles. When treatment is needed, home and medical options for hand tremors apply regardless of the type.
Three main types include postural, or action tremors; static, or resting; and intention, or kinetic. Postural hand tremors occur when a person holds the extremity in a certain position for an extended period of time, such as when writing or holding an object. Static hand tremors cause involuntary movement while the hand or arm rests. Kinetic tremors happen while the person’s hands are active, such as picking up a book, but the movement stops while the hands rest.