Hand Tremors: When to Seek Medical Advice - Psychiatry

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About hand tremors?


Hello, I am the person who inquired about hand tremors a few days ago.
Over the past couple of days, I have gathered some information for your reference.
As I mentioned the other day, my fingers tremble when maintaining a "turtle" position (it occurs on both sides), but sometimes it is more noticeable, while at other times it is hard to detect (the degree of tremor varies).
It's not just my fingers; last night, when I raised my left hand to a certain position, it also trembled.
Today, I noticed that my thumb shakes when bending towards my palm.
Should I disregard this, or is it necessary to seek medical attention?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/27

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry


Hello: It seems that your previous question was not directed specifically to me, and the team did not provide me with your last question or the response from another physician.
I can only respond to the question you have posed this time, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you! It sounds like your hand experiences tremors during specific movements, which may be triggered by exertion.
Considering the possibility of muscle or nerve issues, if these conditions have caused you any inconvenience in daily life or psychological stress, I recommend consulting a rehabilitation specialist or a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.
You can also utilize the Taiwan e-Hospital platform again to ask questions to rehabilitation and neurology specialists, as I believe they can provide you with ample information.

Reply Date: 2018/06/27

More Info


Hand tremors can be a concerning symptom, and understanding when to seek medical advice is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Tremors are involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions that can lead to shaking movements in one or more parts of the body, most commonly the hands. They can vary in intensity and frequency, and their causes can range from benign to serious medical conditions.

In your case, you mentioned that your fingers tremble when maintaining certain positions, such as when holding your hand in a specific posture. This type of tremor can be classified as a postural tremor, which occurs when you hold a position against gravity. It's important to note that tremors can be exacerbated by factors such as stress, fatigue, caffeine intake, or certain medications.
There are several potential causes of hand tremors, including:
1. Essential Tremor: This is a common neurological disorder that causes rhythmic shaking, particularly in the hands and arms. It often worsens with movement and can be hereditary.

2. Parkinson's Disease: Tremors associated with Parkinson's disease typically occur at rest and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as stiffness, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability.

3. Anxiety or Stress: Emotional factors can lead to tremors, especially in situations where you may feel nervous or anxious.

4. Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid can cause tremors, along with other symptoms like weight loss, increased heart rate, and sweating.

5. Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, particularly those affecting the nervous system, can lead to tremors as a side effect.

6. Alcohol Withdrawal: If you have recently reduced or stopped alcohol consumption, tremors can occur as part of withdrawal symptoms.

Given your description of the tremors being more noticeable at times and affecting your ability to hold your hand in certain positions, it would be advisable to seek medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough assessment, which may include a neurological examination, blood tests, and possibly imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of your tremors.

When to seek medical advice:
- If the tremors are persistent and interfere with daily activities.

- If you notice other symptoms such as changes in coordination, balance issues, or stiffness.

- If the tremors worsen over time or change in character.

- If you experience any new symptoms that concern you, such as weakness, numbness, or changes in vision.

In conclusion, while some hand tremors can be benign and related to lifestyle factors, others may indicate a more serious underlying condition. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management based on your specific situation. Early intervention can be key in addressing any potential issues and improving your quality of life.

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