I get the shakes often. What could be causing this?

Question

My dad use to get them all the time, but he was an alcoholic and a drug addict....so, I'm pretty sure that's why.

I, however, are seemingly healthy. But they get real bad sometimes. For example, I'm a painter.....at points, I have to put both my elbows on the table and hold my right hand with my left just to keep them from shaking just so I can paint.

It's not only when I paint, but during other times also....

Answer 1

Everyday causes of minor tremor may include:
Normal aging
Stress
Tiredness
Caffeine
Alcohol
Hypoglycemic attack - usually temporary tremor resolved once blood sugars are raised.
High blood sugar levels
Anger
Excitement
Some causes of chronic tremor include:
Parkinson's disease
Essential tremor
Alcoholism
Liver disease
Kidney disease
Multiple sclerosis
Stroke
Hypoglycemia - usually episodes of tremor with hypoglycemic attacks
Brain tumor
Hyperthyroidism
Wilson's disease
Friedrich's ataxia
Head injury
Concussion
Stroke
Tertiary syphilis
Seizure disorders
Some psychological disorders that might cause tremor-like symptoms include:
Anxiety disorders
GAD
Panic disorder
Intermittent explosive disorder - when causing anger episodes.
Certain medications
Alcohol withdrawal
Drug withdrawal
Amphetamine withdrawal
Hallucinogen withdrawal
Causes may also depend on the location of the tremor
(ref 1)

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Essential tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by shaking of hands ... The incidence is unknown, but is estimated to be as common as one person in 20.
(ref 2)
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Half of the cases are due to gene mutation and transmitted dominantly
(ref 2)


My guess is it's from your father (did he ever shake before alcohol/drugs?) , or it's one of the things on the first list. You might want to see a doctor anyways, especially if it intereferes with your work and is treatable.

I can't paint - it's something that is just beyond me. All of my art is in pencil or inks, which of course drives my college art teacher crazy that I won't use paints, but I can imagine it would really mess up your work.

More wikipedia:
The two medications that are prescribed most commonly for control of ET symptoms are the anticonvulsant Primidone (Mysoline®) and the beta-blocker propranolol (Inderal®).
Minor cases of ET can be treated with physical therapy and development of the muscles in the sections of the body that are severe in their shaking.(ref 2)

These would still probably involve going to the doctor, though. I hate asking a question on Yahoo answers and being told to go to the doctor (happened not too long ago when I couldn't hear out of my ear and everyone instantly told me to go to an ENT / emergency room. Ick), so only do it if it's like such a constant thing that it really messes with your life.

G'luck.

Answer 2

It's probally hereditary. Here's what i recommend buy some incense, Herbal Tea and try to relax a little take a day off of work and think about other things

Answer 3

It could be your thyroid as well as any number of nervous conditions. You really need to get it diagnosed by a physician. Good luck.

Answer 4

Nerves? If it's God calling you, turn your life over to Jesus. Here's how.

Believe that Jesus took on the form of human flesh. Lived a sinless and perfect life. Died on the cross for our sins according to the scriptures and was buried. You must believe that He rose on the third day and according to the scriptures ascended into heaven.
Trust and believe in Jesus.
Justin

Answer 5

if you don't drink, you may just be nervous. Is anything bothering you? Monitor yourself for a week, then if the problem hasn't left, see your doctor.

Answer 6

Maybe your having Segeries(i don't know how to spell it) and maybe u should go and visit a doctor.

Answer 7

maybe you get the shakes because u get nearvous i guess, i cant really say its anything else if your healthy

Answer 8

maybe you're allergic or sensitive to something - paint fumes? too much caffeine?

Answer 9

IDK my mom can answer that cause she is the nurse!