Body Tremors: Possible Causes and Concerns

Q: Body Tremors: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello： Your symptoms may suggest benign muscle twitching. <br>Certain situations in daily life can contribute to this issue, such as exercise, acute viral infections, anxiety, and medication use. <br>Among these, prolonged exercise is one of the primary causes of muscle twitching

Body tremors

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing a tremor-like sensation in the bones on the side of my right breast and in the area around my armpit.
I can also feel movement when I press on it with my hand.
I would like to ask what possible causes this could be...

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/23

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Your symptoms may suggest benign muscle twitching.
Certain situations in daily life can contribute to this issue, such as exercise, acute viral infections, anxiety, and medication use.
Among these, prolonged exercise is one of the primary causes of muscle twitching.
Additionally, some medications may exacerbate twitching, including diuretics, corticosteroids, estrogens, and excessive caffeine.
If accompanied by abnormal sensations, it may be necessary to consider nerve inflammation or compression.
Many patients find themselves in a vicious cycle where slight muscle twitches lead to anxiety, which in turn exacerbates the muscle twitching, further triggering panic and anxiety.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/02/23

More Info

Understanding body tremors can be quite complex, as they may arise from a variety of causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. In your case, the tremors you are experiencing in the right side of your breast and underarm area could be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it’s important to consider the possibility of muscle spasms or fasciculations. These involuntary contractions of muscle fibers can occur for various reasons, including fatigue, dehydration, or even stress. If you have been engaging in physical activities or exercises that might strain the muscles in that area, it could lead to temporary spasms. Additionally, anxiety and stress can also manifest physically, causing muscle tension and spasms.

Another potential cause could be related to nerve irritation or compression. Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels are compressed in the space between your collarbone and your first rib, can lead to sensations of tremors or tingling in the upper body. Similarly, issues with the spine, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, can also affect nerve function and lead to unusual sensations in the chest or arm.

It's also worth considering the possibility of hormonal changes, especially if you are a woman experiencing fluctuations in hormone levels due to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause. Hormonal changes can affect muscle tone and nerve sensitivity, potentially leading to sensations like tremors.

In some cases, tremors can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as neurological disorders. For instance, conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease can present with tremors, but these are usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as changes in coordination, balance issues, or other neurological signs.

Given the symptoms you described, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to rule out any structural issues, as well as blood tests to check for any underlying metabolic or hormonal imbalances.

In the meantime, consider keeping a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities or stressors. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Lastly, while it’s natural to be concerned about unusual bodily sensations, try to manage any anxiety you may have regarding your health. Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation, can help alleviate some of the stress that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for the tremors you are experiencing, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes.

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