What causes hand tremors in the elderly?

Generally, hand tremors in the elderly may be caused by physiological aging, physical fatigue, hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Physiological Aging

With increasing age, dopaminergic neurons in the nervous system gradually decrease, leading to reduced ability to control muscle coordination, which may result in hand tremors in the elderly. Medication is usually not required; instead, regular exercise and enhanced muscle coordination training are recommended in daily life.

2. Physical Fatigue

Excessive physical or mental labor over a prolonged period can deplete the body’s energy reserves and cause temporary dysfunction of the nervous system, potentially leading to hand tremors. Adequate rest and proper nutritional supplementation are important for prevention.

3. Hypoglycemia

Poor nutrition or low immunity may trigger hypoglycemia. When blood glucose levels drop too low, the brain lacks sufficient energy supply, possibly causing hand tremors in the elderly. Symptoms may include trembling hands and cold sweats. Patients may use medications such as glucose injection, compound furosemide tablets, or ferrous gluconate tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism may be caused by factors such as psychological stress or genetic predisposition, resulting in excessive secretion of thyroid hormones. This accelerates metabolism and affects the nervous system, potentially causing the aforementioned symptoms. Common manifestations may include weight loss and rapid heartbeat. Patients can receive treatment with medications such as propylthiouracil tablets, methylthiouracil tablets, or carbimazole tablets under a doctor’s supervision.

5. Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease may arise from genetic factors or emotional changes, leading to progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, causing motor dysfunction and possibly resulting in the symptoms described above. It is typically accompanied by bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and muscle rigidity. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as levodopa tablets, benserazide-levodopa tablets, or pramipexole hydrochloride tablets for treatment.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, balanced diet, moderate exercise, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol intake, regular health check-ups to monitor thyroid function and blood glucose levels, and timely management of stress and anxiety are crucial for preserving hand stability and overall health in older adults.