What causes hand tremors in the elderly?

Generally, hand tremors in the elderly may be caused by decreased muscle strength, emotional fluctuations, essential tremor, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Decreased Muscle Strength

In elderly individuals, reduced muscle strength and aging of the nervous system—particularly changes in the basal ganglia—may lead to hand tremors. Regular moderate physical exercise, such as tai chi or yoga, can help enhance muscle strength and neurological coordination.

2. Emotional Fluctuations

Elderly people may experience hand tremors when feeling tense, anxious, excited, or emotionally aroused. Deep breathing exercises can help stabilize emotions: inhale deeply, hold the breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly; repeating this several times can help calm the body and mind.

3. Essential Tremor

Essential tremor is usually associated with genetic factors and abnormal brain activity in certain regions. As nerve cells in the elderly gradually degenerate, particularly degeneration in the extrapyramidal system, hand tremors may occur. This condition is often accompanied by difficulties in writing or using utensils. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as propranolol hydrochloride tablets, topiramate tablets, or primidone tablets for treatment.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism typically results from excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, which increases excitability of muscles and nerves, leading to frequent hand tremors. Other symptoms may include irritability, weight loss, and reduced appetite. Under medical supervision, medications such as metoprolol tartrate tablets, propranolol hydrochloride tablets, or propylthiouracil tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is usually caused by degeneration and death of dopamine-producing neurons. The progressive loss of these neurons in the brain may disrupt motor control, resulting in hand tremors. Symptoms often include limb stiffness, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as pramipexole hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, entacapone tablets, or trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride tablets for treatment.

In daily life, elderly individuals should pay attention to their health and engage in appropriate exercise to enhance immunity.