Hand tremors, also known as shaky hands, are involuntary movements of the hands that people may experience in certain situations or as a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

While hand tremors are not always a cause for concern, they can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition. In this article, we will explore the various causes of hand tremors.

1. Essential Tremor

Essential tremor is a neurological condition that can cause shaking of the hands, head, voice, and other parts of the body. The tremors occur when the affected person tries to perform a task, such as writing or holding a cup.

Essential tremor is a genetic condition that usually starts in early adulthood and gets worse over time. While essential tremor is not a life-threatening condition, it can be debilitating and can interfere with daily activities.

2. Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Hand tremors are one of the most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and usually begin in the hand on one side of the body.

As the disease progresses, the tremors may spread to other parts of the body, become more pronounced, and may occur while at rest. Other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include stiffness, slow movement, and difficulty with balance and coordination.

3. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, including hand tremors.

In some cases, the tremors may be an early sign of multiple sclerosis before other symptoms appear. People with multiple sclerosis may also experience tingling sensations, numbness, weakness, and difficulty with movement and coordination.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Hand tremors are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism, along with weight loss, anxiety, irritability, and an increased heart rate.

The tremors may be more pronounced when the person is under stress or has been physically active.

5. Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can cause a range of physical symptoms, including hand tremors. When a person experiences anxiety, their body responds by releasing hormones such as adrenaline, which can cause shaking and trembling.

The tremors may be more pronounced during times of stress or anxiety.

6. Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.

While hand tremors are not a typical symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, some people with the condition may experience mild tremors or shaking of the hands.

7. Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Depending on the location and severity of the stroke, it can cause a range of physical symptoms, including hand tremors.

The tremors may affect one or both hands, and other symptoms may include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding language, and trouble with balance and coordination.

8. Trauma

Injury or trauma to the hand or wrist can cause hand tremors, particularly if the injury affects the nerves or muscles in the hand. In some cases, the tremors may be mild and temporary, while in other cases, they may be more severe and long-lasting.

9. Medications

Some medications can cause hand tremors as a side effect. These may include certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and drugs used to treat conditions such as epilepsy and high blood pressure.

The tremors may go away once the person stops taking the medication, or they may persist even after the medication is discontinued.

10. Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal is a condition that can occur when a person stops drinking alcohol after a prolonged period of heavy drinking. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include hand tremors, along with anxiety, sweating, nausea, and seizures.

The tremors may be most pronounced in the morning and may subside as the day goes on.

Hand tremors can be a symptom of a range of medical conditions, from essential tremor to Parkinson’s disease to hyperthyroidism.

If you are experiencing hand tremors that are interfering with your daily activities, talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options.