Hand Tremors: When to Seek Neurological Advice

Tremor issues?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I noticed that when I rest my wrist on the table and use my phone with one hand, I experience some shaking in my hand.
The frequency is not fast, and the amplitude is not large; it just feels a bit unusual.
I'm not sure if this has been happening for a while and I only recently noticed it.
I would like to ask if this symptom is serious and if it could indicate a problem with my cerebellum.
Thank you for your clarification, Doctor.

Xiao Zhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, our bodies can experience physiological tremors, primarily due to excessive use of large muscles or an overreaction of the sympathetic nervous system.
However, these types of tremors tend to occur at a faster rate.
Our autonomic nervous system is regulated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems—one acts as the accelerator, while the other serves as the brake.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for stimulating the body, leading to increased heart rate, faster breathing, and increased sweating during exercise.
Once the activity stops, the parasympathetic nervous system takes over, slowing down the heart rate, reducing breathing rate, and decreasing sweating.
The slower tremors you mentioned should indeed raise considerations regarding potential issues in the brain, such as those involving the cerebellum or the basal ganglia, which control movement.
It is also important to check for abnormalities in thyroid function or electrolytes.
I recommend consulting a neurologist to discuss further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/07/01

More Info

When it comes to hand tremors, particularly those that occur while resting or during specific activities like using a smartphone, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes and when to seek medical advice. Tremors can be benign or indicative of a more serious neurological condition, so careful assessment is necessary.

Firstly, it's important to note that tremors can arise from various factors, including physiological conditions, neurological disorders, or even medication side effects. In your case, since you mentioned that the tremors occur when your wrist is resting on a table while using your phone, this could suggest a few possibilities.

1. Physiological Tremors: These are common and can occur in anyone, often exacerbated by stress, fatigue, caffeine intake, or anxiety. If the tremors are mild and infrequent, they may not be a cause for concern.

2. Essential Tremor: This is a neurological condition that typically manifests as a tremor during voluntary movements, such as writing or using a phone. It can also occur at rest but is more pronounced during action. Essential tremor is often hereditary and can worsen over time.

3. Parkinsonian Tremors: These tremors are usually more pronounced at rest and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as stiffness, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. If you notice any of these additional symptoms, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.

4. Cerebellar Tremors: If the tremors are associated with coordination issues or balance problems, they may indicate a dysfunction in the cerebellum, which is responsible for motor control. This type of tremor is often linked to neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or stroke.

Given your description of the tremors being infrequent and not particularly severe, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, if you notice any changes in the frequency, intensity, or if other symptoms develop (such as changes in coordination, balance issues, or stiffness), it would be wise to consult a neurologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a neurological examination, imaging studies (like an MRI), or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the tremors.

In summary, while occasional hand tremors can be benign, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the tremors become more frequent, severe, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking neurological advice is advisable. Early intervention can be crucial in managing any underlying conditions effectively. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

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