What are Tremors?

Tremors or trembling, are uncontrolled muscle movements of various parts of the body back and forth and may include shaking of the arms, hands, feet, legs, torso, head, facial muscles, or voice when talking. This shaking occurs when parts of the brain that are responsible for controlling muscles do not work properly or are being blocked.

Trembling may be caused by the following conditions:

• a stroke
• serious head injuries causing trauma
• multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• diseases that deteriorate the brain
• anxiety or excitement
• fatigue of muscles
• low blood sugar levels
• fever (body temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above)
• poisoning or overdose of certain chemicals, excessive alcohol use or alcohol abuse
• liver failure
• an overactive thyroid

How Are Tremors Treated?

Treatment of tremors requires first relieving the underlying condition. Trembling related to Parkinson’s disease may be treated through the use of medications for the condition. Most cases of tremors may be reduced by taking beta blockers, clonazepam, propranolol, or primidone depending on the type of tremor. Avoiding the use of caffeine or other tremor inducing substances can prevent the onset of tremors.