Do you ever feel your hands start to shake uncontrollably for no apparent reason? Does this cause you anxiety, leading to a fear of being judged or embarrassed in a public setting?.

If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing a physical symptom of anxiety known as hand tremors.

In this article, we will explore the many causes of hand tremors while providing insight into how you can manage this condition if you choose to do so.

What Are Hand Tremors?

Hand tremors are involuntary and rhythmic movements of the hands that generally cause a quivering or shaky appearance. This condition can affect a wide range of individuals, regardless of age, gender, or race.

Hand tremors can appear in different forms, such as:.

Postural tremors: These tremors appear when you are voluntarily moving your hands.
Resting tremors: These tremors become more pronounced when you are at rest, such as when sitting or lying down.
Intention tremors: These tremors occur when you are making deliberate movements, such as reaching for something.

While hand tremors are generally not dangerous, they can become more pronounced over time, leading to embarrassment and anxiety for the individual experiencing them.

Causes of Hand Tremors

There is no single cause of hand tremors. However, some of the more common causes of hand tremors include:.

1. Essential Tremor

This is the most common cause of hand tremors and is generally considered a benign, inherited condition. Essential tremors tend to worsen with age and can affect the hands, head, and voice of the individual.

2. Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system. One of the symptoms of Parkinson’s is hand tremors, which tend to occur at rest and can worsen over time.

3. Medications

Some medications that individuals take for various health conditions can cause hand tremors as a side effect. You should always check with your healthcare provider to see if hand tremors are a potential side effect of any medication you are prescribed.

4. Alcohol Withdrawal

During alcohol withdrawal, individuals may experience hand tremors as one of the physical symptoms. These tremors generally subside after the individual has detoxed from the alcohol.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormone, leading to weight loss, fast heart rate, and hand tremors, to name a few symptoms.

Managing Hand Tremors

While some of the causes of hand tremors can be managed through medical treatment or lifestyle changes, other causes are not treatable. However, there are ways you can manage hand tremors to minimize their impact on your daily life:.

1. Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine can help you manage your anxiety related to hand tremors, leading to a reduction in their frequency and intensity.

Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can be helpful in reducing anxiety and stress levels.

2. Avoid Stimulants

Stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, and amphetamines can exacerbate hand tremors, so it is best to avoid consuming these substances if possible.

3. Physical Therapy

A physical therapist can help you work on strengthening the muscles in your hands and arms, leading to improved coordination and control over your hand tremors.

4. Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy can help you adapt to activities of daily living, making them easier to manage with hand tremors. Occupational therapists can help you identify assistive devices and techniques to make your daily tasks more manageable.

Conclusion

Hand tremors can be a source of embarrassment and anxiety for many individuals.

While there are a variety of causes of hand tremors, managing them through various techniques such as relaxation, avoiding stimulants, physical therapy, and occupational therapy can lead to improved quality of life for those experiencing them.