Does hyperthyroidism cause tremor?

The shaking is often fine and rapid, and may be easier to see when your hands are held out or used for a precise task. Excess thyroid hormone can heighten the body’s response to adrenaline. You might also have a fast heartbeat, sweating, heat intolerance, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or changes in weight and bowel habits. Tremor can also have other explanations, including medicines, caffeine, anxiety, low blood sugar, or neurological conditions, so its presence does not establish a diagnosis.

Book an appointment if shaking is new, persistent, or interfering with writing, eating, work, or daily tasks. Note whether it occurs at rest or during movement, affects one or both hands, and changes after caffeine or a medicine. A clinician may check your pulse, reflexes, hands, and thyroid, then arrange blood tests. Bring a list of prescribed medicines, inhalers, supplements, and energy drinks.

Seek urgent help for sudden tremor with confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty speaking, one-sided symptoms, chest pain, or severe breathlessness. Prompt assessment is also needed when shaking is accompanied by high fever, severe agitation, or a very fast heartbeat. Do not drive if the symptoms are severe or you feel faint.

Does my tremor pattern fit increased thyroid activity? Which medicines or stimulants could be contributing? What blood tests are appropriate? How can I manage the shaking while the cause is being investigated?