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What causes hand tremors in the elderly?

Aug 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
Hand tremors in the elderly may be caused by age-related muscle changes, psychological stress, essential tremor, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, and other factors. To maintain good health, it is important to manage emotions effectively, maintain a positive mindset, engage in moderate physical exercise to enhance muscle strength and coordination, and follow a balanced diet to support overall well-being.

Generally, hand tremors in older adults may be caused by age-related muscle changes, psychological stress, essential tremor, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, and other factors. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Age-Related Muscle Changes

With advancing age, elderly individuals experience a reduction in muscle fibers and decreased muscle mass, along with reduced efficiency in signal transmission between nerves and muscles. This leads to weakened muscle control and can result in hand tremors. Regular moderate muscle exercise is recommended in daily life.

2. Psychological Stress

Elderly individuals may face various life changes such as retirement or the loss of loved ones, which can lead to anxiety or depression, thereby causing hand tremors. These symptoms can be improved through deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation techniques in daily life.

3. Essential Tremor

Essential tremor may be related to genetic factors or abnormal function in specific areas of the brain. Abnormal neuronal activity disrupts communication between neural structures such as the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia, leading to the aforementioned symptoms. It may also be accompanied by shaking of the head or voice. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as diazepam tablets, clonazepam tablets, and atenolol hydrochloride tablets.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is caused by excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. Elevated thyroid hormone levels increase metabolic rate and enhance nervous system excitability, resulting in hand tremors. Symptoms may also include palpitations and weight loss. Medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and levothyroxine sodium tablets should be used under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease may be associated with genetic factors and aging. The condition leads to a decrease in dopamine, causing an imbalance in neurotransmitters and resulting in involuntary muscle tremors, including those in the hands. Symptoms may also include bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and muscle rigidity. Treatment may involve medications such as levodopa tablets, amantadine hydrochloride tablets, and trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride tablets, used according to a physician’s instructions.

To maintain good health, individuals should pay attention to emotional well-being, maintain a positive mindset, engage in moderate physical exercise to improve muscle strength and coordination, and follow a balanced diet to support overall physical health.

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