Fine Tremors in Hands

About the Symptom

This describes unintentional, fine (small-amplitude) shaking movements in either a part or the entirety of a person's hand(s) or finger(s).

When to See a Doctor

Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms

• Jaundice
• Unexplained weight loss of 5% or more in 1 month
• Fine tremor of the fingers
• Involuntary movements
• Numbness / sensory disorder
• Recent weight loss
• Disorder of consciousness
• History of cerebrovascular disorder
• Altered mental status (delirium)

Possible Causes

Generally, Fine tremors in hands can be related to:

• Striatal Substantia Nigra Degeneration

  This neurological disorder is caused by a disruption in the connection between two brain areas - the striatum and the substantia nigra. These areas work together to maintain balance and movement. It can be caused by other neurological disorders like Parkinson's or cocaine abuse.

• Parkinson's Disease

  A progressive nervous system disorder affecting movement. It occurs due to nerve cell damage in the brain. The exact cause for PD is unknown. Risk factors include genetics, male gender, old age, and exposure to certain toxins and environmental factors.

• Alcohol Dependence / Delirium Tremens

  A condition in which the patient depends on alcohol and experiences withdrawal symptoms if they don't have a drink. These symptoms can range from mild (e.g., irritation, sleeplessness) to severe (confusion, coma, seizures).

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy
• Hyperthyroidism
• Graves' Disease
• Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy

Related Serious Diseases

Sometimes, Fine tremors in hands may be related to these serious diseases:

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

  This is a rare and serious reaction to certain medications. Symptoms usually begin within hours to days after exposure to the medication but can sometimes occur up to a month after starting it. Common causative medications include antipsychotics and occasionally drugs used to treat or prevent vomiting, Parkinson's disease, etc. Symptoms include dangerously high body temperature, muscular rigidity, and severe agitation and altered mental status.

• Thyroid Storm
• Hypoglycemia

Doctor's Diagnostic Questions

Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:

• Do you experience fine tremors in your hands or fingers?
• When did you first notice the fine tremors of your hands or fingers?
• How are your fine tremors of the hands or fingers now?
• Did your symptoms start with finger or toe trembling?
• How severe are your fine tremors of the hands or fingers?

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