What causes palpitations and hand tremors before meals?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Palpitations and hand tremors before meals may be caused by physiological factors, or by pathological conditions such as hypoglycemia or hyperthyroidism. In cases of hypoglycemia, when blood glucose levels drop below 3.9 mmol/L, the body's sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, leading to symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, and hand tremors. These symptoms typically resolve after eating.
Palpitations and hand tremors before meals may be caused by physiological factors, or they could result from pathological conditions such as hypoglycemia or hyperthyroidism. Specific details are as follows:
1. Physiological Causes
When a person feels emotionally tense before eating, symptoms such as hand tremors and anxiety may occur. These symptoms can usually be relieved by practicing deep breathing exercises to help regulate mood and calm the mind.
2. Pathological Causes
1) Hypoglycemia
In individuals with hypoglycemia, when blood glucose levels fall below 3.9 mmol/L, the sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, leading to symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, and hand tremors. These symptoms typically resolve after eating.
2) Hyperthyroidism
Patients with hyperthyroidism produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, which can cause symptoms including increased heart rate, irritability, and tremors in the limbs. Treatment may include medications such as methimazole tablets or propylthiouracil tablets, taken under a doctor's guidance.
In addition, conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and coronary atherosclerotic heart disease may also cause hand tremors. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
