Why Your Hands Shake Sometimes Even If You're Calm (And What It May Mean)

 

Even when you're totally relaxed, your hands aren't completely steady. This often ignored sign provides a window into your metabolism, nervous system and daily habits. A physiologic tremor occurs in all individuals, even while we are lying in bed or otherwise at rest.

These occur because our body is never completely at rest. They can come and go without warning. But when your blood sugar is low, or you're dehydrated or have mild mineral imbalances, those tiny twitches can become more exaggerated. The brain sends out corrective signals to help with balance, and it sends them out more often when the muscles are slightly fatigued or the nervous system is momentarily overstimulated.

That increased signaling is often visible in the form of shaking hands. That may be why they often get worse with sudden changes in posture or even moderate exercise. Other factors that affect tremors include nutrition.

Excess coffee intake, slight dehydration or missing a meal can also bring on a temporary shake. These episodes of shaking are generally harmless — a reminder to feed yourself healthfully and to hydrate — but can be exacerbated by low levels of calcium, magnesium and potassium. Rarer causes of tremors include medical disorders (such as a thyroid imbalance) and medications. Subtle, early neurological changes could also affect hand stability.

Paying attention to patterns associated with the occasional tremor — how frequently it occurs, the time of day, whether there are any other symptoms — can help you determine if you need to see a professional. Incorporating stretching and moderate exercise into your routine can help control tremors. Stress reduction and gentle hand exercises may also improve fine motor control.

Stay away from energy drinks and too much caffeine. But it's important to distinguish an isolated physiological tremor from shaking that is persistent or progressive. Those kinds of tremors need to be evaluated by a physician.

 

Occasional hand tremors usually are not cause for concern and may be related to nutrition or mild fatigue or may be part of normal physiologic changes. In most cases, simple lifestyle changes and recognition of what triggers the shakiness can help decrease episodes. In the meantime, being attuned to your body's subtle cues can help you get ahead of the curve, while helping prevent you from worrying needlessly.

In conclusion, occasional hand tremors are often normal and linked to everyday physiological adjustments, nutrition, or minor fatigue. In conclusion, occasional hand tremors are often normal and linked to everyday physiological adjustments, nutrition, or minor fatigue. In conclusion, occasional hand tremors are often normal and linked to everyday physiological adjustments, nutrition, or minor fatigue.