Why does a child tremble when nervous?

Generally, a child trembling when nervous may be caused by sympathetic nerve excitement, hyperventilation, essential tremor, anxiety disorder, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Sympathetic Nerve Excitement

During tension, the sympathetic nervous system becomes excited, stimulating increased secretion of adrenaline, leading to muscle contractions and rapid heartbeat, which can cause body tremors. Parents should promptly comfort the child, using techniques such as deep breathing or listening to soft music to divert attention and alleviate the state of tension.

2. Hyperventilation

Rapid breathing during stress causes excessive expulsion of carbon dioxide from the body, resulting in respiratory alkalosis, which may lead to trembling and numbness in hands and feet. Have the child breathe slowly into a cupped hand or small container to reduce CO₂ loss and restore normal breathing rhythm.

3. Essential Tremor

This condition is often related to genetics. Under stress, abnormal brain nerve regulation leads to involuntary tremors in areas such as the hands or head. Medications such as propranolol tablets, atenolol tablets, or primidone tablets may be taken under medical guidance. Avoid letting the child become overly stressed or fatigued.

4. Anxiety Disorder

Chronic psychological pressure can lead to anxiety, with disrupted serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) levels in the brain. Emotional responses are amplified during stress, triggering tremors. Medications such as sertraline tablets, fluvoxamine tablets, or buspirone tablets may be used under a doctor's supervision, along with psychological counseling tailored for children.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates metabolism and increases nervous system excitability, making tremors more pronounced during stress, often accompanied by symptoms such as sweating and increased appetite. Medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or sustained-release propranolol tablets may be prescribed under medical supervision, while limiting intake of iodine-rich foods.

In daily life, pay close attention to children’s emotional changes and avoid placing excessive pressure on them; encourage participation in social activities to enhance stress resilience; ensure adequate sleep and a balanced diet; and schedule regular physical check-ups to monitor health indicators.