When should you see a doctor about tremor?

Tremor is rhythmic shaking that may appear at rest, during movement, or while holding a position. Stress, tiredness, caffeine and some medicines can make it more noticeable. Other possible contributors include generalised anxiety disorder, an overactive thyroid, low blood glucose, or alcohol withdrawal. The timing, body part affected and triggers help a clinician assess it.

Write down when the shaking happens, what you were doing, recent meals, sleep, caffeine, alcohol and medicines. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice. Eat regular meals if that is normally appropriate for you, and avoid driving or using machinery if the tremor makes control unsafe.

Seek emergency help if tremor starts suddenly with facial drooping, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, severe headache, confusion, collapse or difficulty walking. Get prompt medical advice for shaking with sweating, palpitations, marked agitation, or symptoms that could indicate low blood glucose or alcohol withdrawal.

Ask whether the tremor is present at rest or with movement, whether blood tests or a medicine review may help, and what changes should be reported. Mention family history, thyroid symptoms, anxiety, alcohol use and episodes of dizziness or sweating.