Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Essential tremor

Essential tremor is a neurological movement disorder that mainly causes rhythmic shaking of both hands when holding a position or moving. The head and voice may also shake. Caffeine, stress, lack of sleep and some medicines can make it worse, but new or sudden shaking must first be investigated for other causes.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

  • Essential tremor is a common neurological movement disorder. Its most recognisable feature is rhythmic shaking of both hands while holding a position or making a purposeful movement, such as lifting a cup or writing.
  • Symptoms often begin gradually and may remain mild for years. In some people, the size of the shaking movements and their effect on everyday tasks increase with age.
  • Stress, lack of sleep, exertion, caffeine, nicotine and certain medicines may temporarily increase the tremor. This does not mean that stress causes the underlying condition.
  • A doctor first rules out other causes, including a medicine side effect, thyroid problem, low blood sugar, alcohol withdrawal, parkinsonism and other neurological conditions.
  • Sudden shaking together with loss of neurological function, a change in consciousness or a very severe headache is not a usual presentation and requires an acute assessment.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
F
ForgetfulnessForgetting things easily can relate to stress, lack of sleep, mood, medicines or physical illness, but sometimes to a memory disorder. Sudden confusion is different and needs prompt assessment.
P
Parkinson’s diseaseParkinson’s disease is a gradually progressive brain condition that can affect movement, sleep, thinking, mood, blood pressure, the bowel and other body functions. Sudden loss of function is not part of the usual course; never stop levodopa or other Parkinson’s medication abruptly, and have swallowing problems, falls or acute confusion assessed promptly.
T
Tension-type headacheTension-type headache usually causes pressing or tightening pain on both sides of the head, without serious illness. A new or unusual pattern and neurological warning signs do need assessment.