Shaking Hands, Trembling Hands & Essential Tremors

Over the last few years, I have begun to notice my hands shaking when trying to perform precise movements or tasks? It was a little disturbing because I thought it could be related to early onset of Parkinson’s disease or something like that. I didn’t notice it getting a lot worse, but it was noticeable to me and kept me concerned. I then begin to notice other people with “shaking hands” and decided to investigate further.

In my case, it was referred to as “benign essential tremor”. When my hands were at rest, they were fine…but when I tried to do something that required fine motor skills, I’d notice my hands become jumpy or shaky. Other than the fact that it was annoying and a little embarrassing when someone else was watching me, it really wasn’t that big of a problem. Now…I suppose it may get worse as I get older, but I know I can cope with it.

The cause is not actually known, but it is more prevalent in people where a parent or sibling also experiences the condition. One of the main ways that benign essential tremor is distinguished from Parkinson’s disease, is that with essential tremor, the hands shake when in use, and not when they are at rest. With Parkinson’s disease, you’re more likely to notice the hands shaking when they’re at rest and not when they’re in use, such as when holding a cup of coffee. With essential tremors, you may also notice shaking of other limbs, your head or even your voice.

Typical treatments would include beta blockers, (normally used for high blood pressure), or anti seizure drugs. These medications would need to be taken all the time or the condition will return. A decision would need to be made as to whether the tremors are serious enough to treat with medication or whether you can live with the tremors. Taking medications for the rest of your life because you hands shake a little may not be the best solution?

Another treatment that has gained a lot of attention lately is hypnosis.  If your tremors are a concern for you, I wouldn’t hesitate to give hypnosis a closer look.  It beats the heck out of having to pop another pill!  Click here to learn more.

While the shaky hands can usually be treated, the condition will normally worsen over time. Getting plenty of rest as well as avoiding caffeine and stress, may greatly improve your condition.

You should ALWAYS consult your physician if you experience unexplained shaking or trembling as this can be a sign of more serious conditions.