Tremors are rhythmic, involuntary movements in different parts of the body. People can usually experience a slight tremor in their hands when nervous or right after exercising. These are harmless and subside on their own. But, if one often has shaky hands and the tremors last for a long time, it could be a symptom of a serious health condition. Here, identifying the precise cause would be the first step to finding a permanent solution.

Essential tremor disorder

This is a common neurological disorder that can cause involuntary shaking. Essential tremor usually starts with the hands and can move on to other parts of the body. A distinguishing characteristic of the condition is that it seems to induce trembling only when the affected part (here, hands) is being used. These tremors are almost never observed while at rest. People might not need treatment for ET if the symptoms are mild. However, if the condition makes it challenging to perform everyday tasks, one may have to consult their doctor.

Parkinson’s disease

This is one of the most serious causes of shaking hands. Hand tremors could be an early sign of Parkinson’s. The disease can cause the death of certain brain cells, which is why people with the disease tend to lose muscle control. The signs are initially observed in one hand but can gradually spread to other parts of the body. With time, it affects movements and makes limbs stiff. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage the symptoms with proper treatment.

Multiple Sclerosis

This disease damages the myelin sheath—a protective cover for the nerves and harms one’s immune system as well. It induces various kinds of tremors in your hands and your feet. There are a few treatment options for MS. One must also consult a therapist who can help manage the symptoms.

Hyperthyroidism

This condition is the result of an overactive thyroid gland. Common effects include an excessive release of hormones in the body, and an increase in metabolism as well as heart rate. All these factors can induce tremors in your hands. One can tell if the trembling is a consequence of hyperthyroidism if it is accompanied by other symptoms like sleep-related issues, hyperactivity, and increased sensitivity to heat. Healthcare professionals can make a diagnosis by conducting a blood test and can provide a suitable treatment option.

High caffeine intake

Hand tremors may not always indicate a disorder. Shaky hands could simply be a side-effect of poor habits. For example, coffee can cause jitters. Caffeine works as a stimulant that can wake you up, but too much of it can also increase your heart rate and momentarily give you shaky hands.

Sleep issues

People with sleep-related issues can exhibit hand tremor signs. We need 7-8 hours of sleep every night for our brains to function properly. If the brain does not get its required downtime, it might start working at a reduced capacity causing discomfort throughout the day. One of the common symptoms of disturbed sleep is a hand tremor. Fixing one’s sleep schedule can reduce and possibly get rid of the trembling.

Low blood sugar

This is a common cause of shaking hands. Our bodies use sugar as fuel to function and so, when the blood sugar levels are low, several issues like a racing pulse and trembling hands may develop. The drop in your blood glucose can be triggered by factors like malnutrition and diabetes. A physician can help determine the actual cause and provide suitable treatment accordingly.

Stress

Overactivity in nerves along with muscle tension is often triggered by emotional stress. So, when one is scared or anxious they can also have shaky hands as the stress can increase the heart rate or even make our muscles twitch or tremble. However, hand tremors can subside along with the stress. Meditating and deep breathing exercises are often able to help to calm one’s nerves.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

The nervous system controls the way our body functions and Vitamin B12 is essential for keeping our nervous system healthy. The deficiency of this vitamin can disrupt processes like moving, breathing, and even thinking. In severe cases, one may experience hand tremors. Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and milk are rich in B12. Doctors can recommend a suitable meal plan and give a B12 shot that will help the jitters subside.

Liver disorders

Wilson’s disease and other liver-related disorders can lead to a buildup of toxins in our system. Liver damage can be a probable cause for shaking hands when signs such as yellow skin or eyes are simultaneously observed. One should seek immediate professional help to start the necessary treatment.

It is important to evaluate all the potential causes of shaking hands and seek treatment if required. As far as lifestyle-related issues are concerned, reducing caffeine intake and maintaining healthy sleeping patterns can help if the tremors are mild. Regardless, people must avoid self-diagnosis if the condition persists and seek their physician’s guidance in determining the exact cause.