Tremor — which specialty
Uncontrolled shaking of the hands, either at rest or during movement.
Usually seen by
Neurology
Other directions, depending on what comes with it:
- Endocrinology — if it comes with weight loss, palpitations or heat intolerance
- General internal medicine — if it started after a change of medication
Not sure you have picked the right one? Start with general internal medicine — routing you to the right place is their job, not yours.
Go now, without waiting for an appointment, if any of these apply
- Tremor of sudden onset with weakness or difficulty speaking
- Tremor with a high fever and drowsiness
This list is not exhaustive and does not replace judgement on the spot. If something is clearly wrong and you are unsure, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest facility — waiting in order to be certain is the most dangerous way to spend the time.
What you will be asked — have the answers ready
- Whether it shakes when the hand rests, or when you reach for something
- Which side started first, and whether it has spread
- Whether coffee, alcohol or any medicine changes it
- Whether anyone in the family shakes in the same way
A first appointment is short. Having these answers ready is the cheapest way to avoid a second visit that exists only to supply information.
Bring with you
- A short phone video taken during the tremor — it often differs from how it looks in a clinic room
- A list of medicines and your daily coffee intake
What a first visit usually involves
- Watching the tremor in several positions: at rest, arms outstretched, holding a cup, writing
- A full neurological examination
- Thyroid testing if that direction is indicated