Uncontrollable Hand Tremors: Is It Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease

Hello, I am a 31-year-old female.
Recently, I have experienced involuntary slight tremors in my right thumb for a few seconds.
Sometimes, there are also involuntary muscle twitches along the upper arm of my right arm for a few seconds.
These two symptoms occasionally occur simultaneously, but mostly not at the same time.
When my right thumb trembles involuntarily, I try to relax to shorten the duration of the tremor.
This symptom started appearing around September to October of last year, occurring about 4 or 5 times.
The most recent episodes happened between December and mid-January, each time while I was studying or reading during the day, although I wasn't writing much at that time.
Therefore, I would like to inquire whether this symptom is related to Parkinson's disease or if it is a result of the stress I put on myself.
Additionally, about eight years ago, I experienced a state of stiffness in my left hand due to heightened anger, which returned to normal after I calmed down.
My left hand has been normal since then.
I wonder if the involuntary slight tremors in my fingers today are related to that emotional reaction from eight years ago.
If this is related to Parkinson's disease, what steps will the neurologist take for diagnosis during my consultation at the hospital? Also, could you recommend hospitals in the Kaohsiung area where doctors have experience with this condition or where the medical facilities are well-equipped? Thank you for your response amidst your busy schedule.

sff66, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/02/12

Dr. Zeng Kongyan reply Neurology

Based on the symptoms presented, it is possible that there is involuntary muscle twitching, which is mostly physiological (i.e., non-pathological) and occurs infrequently.
Of course, some early cases of Parkinson's disease, writer's cramp, or motor neuron diseases may exhibit similar symptoms, but the likelihood is low given the current symptoms.
When consulting a neurologist, the physician will first conduct a preliminary neurological examination, and if necessary, will arrange for neurophysiological tests.
Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital both have physicians who specialize in involuntary movements; you can initially visit the neurology department for a consultation, and the physician will make further arrangements as needed.
I hope this response is helpful to you, and I wish you good health!

Reply Date: 2008/02/12

More Info

Uncontrollable hand tremors can be concerning, especially at a young age like yours. While it’s understandable to worry about conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, it’s important to consider various factors before jumping to conclusions.

Firstly, Parkinson's disease typically manifests with a set of specific symptoms, including resting tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity, and postural instability. The tremors associated with Parkinson's are usually more pronounced when the affected limb is at rest and may diminish with purposeful movement. In your case, the tremors are described as light and occurring sporadically, which may not align with the classic presentation of Parkinson's disease.

Your symptoms could be related to several other factors, including stress, anxiety, or even benign essential tremor, which is a common condition that causes rhythmic shaking, often in the hands. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate tremors or cause muscle tension, leading to involuntary movements. The fact that your tremors occur during activities like reading or writing, where concentration may lead to increased anxiety, suggests that psychological factors could be at play.

Regarding your previous experience with your left hand becoming stiff due to anger, it is possible that emotional stress can lead to temporary muscle tension or spasms. However, this is generally not indicative of a progressive neurological disorder like Parkinson's.

If you are concerned about Parkinson's disease or other neurological conditions, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. During your visit, the doctor will likely conduct a thorough clinical evaluation, which may include:
1. Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, their onset, duration, and any associated factors (like stress).

2. Neurological Examination: Assessing your motor skills, coordination, reflexes, and muscle tone.

3. Diagnostic Tests: If necessary, the doctor may recommend tests such as MRI scans or blood tests to rule out other conditions.

In terms of healthcare facilities in Kaohsiung, you can consider visiting hospitals known for their neurology departments, such as Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital or E-Da Hospital. These institutions typically have experienced neurologists and advanced diagnostic equipment.

In conclusion, while your symptoms warrant attention, they may not necessarily indicate Parkinson's disease. Stress and anxiety could be significant contributing factors. It is essential to seek professional medical advice for a proper diagnosis and to discuss your concerns openly with a neurologist. They can provide you with the appropriate guidance and treatment options based on your specific situation. Remember, early intervention can be beneficial, and addressing any underlying stress or anxiety may also help alleviate your symptoms.

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