Have your hands ever started to shake just as you were about to present, lead a meeting, or host an event? If so, that episode is called a tremor. Hand tremors can appear in nervous system disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, but they also have many other triggers and are often harmless. At times, tremors signal nutrient deficiencies or point to certain medical conditions. Let’s look more closely at why hand tremors happen.

Causes of Shaking Hands (Tremors)

According to Healthline, a tremor is an involuntary, uncontrolled rhythmic movement of a body part. Many tremors settle on their own and require no special treatment. Some causes of tremors include:

1. Anxiety

Strong emotionssuch as nervousness, panic, fear, and anger can set the hands shaking. When panic strikes, the body interprets it as a threat and prepares to escape, which makes muscles fire and produces shaking and small twitches. Tremors related to this situation are often referred to as psychogenic tremors.

2. The Effects of Caffeine

Caffeine in beverages can trigger hand tremors. Coffee and tea stimulate the release of adrenaline in the brain, and this surge can cause the hands to shake.

3. The Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol can also lead to hand tremors. This is especially common in people with alcohol dependence who suddenly stop drinking. Tremors may begin 5–10 hours after the last drink and can last 24–78 hours, and in some cases for several weeks. This pattern is commonly described as an essential tremor.

4. Low Blood Sugar Level

Low blood sugar level or hypoglycemia can cause hand tremors. But the shaking is often accompanied by a rapid heartbeat, cold sweats, and weakness. If tremors are due to low blood sugar, take a quick source of sugar right away, such as sweetened water or warm water mixed with honey.

5. Vitamin B1 and Magnesium Deficiencies

Vitamin B1 and magnesium deficiencies can also cause tremors. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is vital for nerve signaling and carbohydrate metabolism, which fuels the brain as its source of energy. When thiamine level is low, the brain lacks adequate fuel and muscle and nerve function can be affected.

6. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone, and it can cause hand tremors. An overactive thyroid gland speeds up body metabolism processes, often leading to symptoms such as tachycardia and difficulty sleeping.

Hand tremors that are not associated to an underlying medical disease often subside on their own. However, if the shaking continues for several days and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as headaches, muscle stiffness, or weakness, you should see a doctor promptly.

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