Conditions

Tremor

Involuntary, rhythmic shaking of part of the body, most often the hands.

About this condition

Tremor is an involuntary shaking movement, most often of the hands, though it can affect the head, voice or legs. Tremor has many causes.

Common types include essential tremor, which often runs in families, and tremor due to Parkinson's disease. Tremor can also be caused by anxiety, thyroid problems, caffeine and some medicines.

Common symptoms

  • Shaking of the hands when holding objects or writing
  • Shaking at rest that improves with movement
  • Head nodding or a shaky voice
  • Tremor that worsens with stress, tiredness or caffeine

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

How it is assessed

  1. Observing the tremor at rest, in different positions and during tasks.
  2. A review of medicines, caffeine and alcohol use.
  3. Blood tests, such as thyroid tests, if advised.

Who may be affected

  • People with a new tremor
  • People whose tremor is affecting writing, eating or work

Preparing for your appointment

It helps to bring:

  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse

How the clinic can help

  • Explaining the type of tremor.
  • Lifestyle advice and treatment if the tremor affects daily life.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Is a tremor always serious?

No. Many tremors are mild. However, a new tremor should be checked to find the cause.

Can a tremor be reduced?

Depending on the cause, avoiding triggers, treating an underlying condition or medicines may help.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Dystonia

A movement disorder that causes involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures.

View Details: Dystonia

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.