What is resting tremor?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Resting tremor may be caused by emotional stress, excessive fatigue, Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, hyperthyroidism, etc., and can be improved through emotional regulation, rest, relaxation, medication, and other methods. If the tremor progressively worsens or affects daily life, prompt medical attention is necessary. Sudden episodes of tension, anxiety, or other intense emotions can trigger nervous system excitation.
Resting tremor may be caused by emotional stress, excessive fatigue, Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, hyperthyroidism, and other conditions. It can be improved through emotional regulation, rest and relaxation, medication, and other methods. If the tremor progressively worsens or affects daily life, prompt medical attention is necessary.
1. Emotional stress: Sudden intense emotions such as tension or anxiety can trigger nervous system excitation, leading to transient resting tremors in limbs, which usually subside once emotions stabilize. It is recommended to practice deep breathing and meditation to relax both mind and body, avoiding drastic emotional fluctuations.
2. Excessive fatigue: Long-term sleep deprivation and physical or mental exhaustion can disrupt neuromuscular regulation, resulting in mild resting tremors in limbs, often accompanied by fatigue. It is advised to ensure adequate sleep, reduce overexertion, and take appropriate rest to restore energy.
3. Parkinson’s disease: Degeneration and death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra lead to resting tremors in limbs, often accompanied by bradykinesia and muscle rigidity. Patients may take medications such as trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride tablets, levodopa-carbidopa (co-careldopa) tablets, or pramipexole extended-release tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.
4. Essential tremor: Primarily influenced by genetic factors, this condition manifests as symmetric resting tremors in limbs that lessen during activity but worsen with stress. It is recommended to use medications such as propranolol tablets, atenolol tablets, or gabapentin capsules under a doctor’s guidance to relieve discomfort.
5. Hyperthyroidism: Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates metabolism, causing resting tremors, often accompanied by palpitations, heat intolerance, and excessive sweating. Patients may take medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol extended-release tablets as prescribed to improve symptoms.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late; eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and protein; engage in moderate, gentle exercise; reduce caffeine intake; and maintain emotional stability to help alleviate tremor symptoms.
