Tremors are defined as involuntary and rhythmic contraction of muscles within the body. Tremors are commonly seen in the hands but can also be seen in the legs, vocal cords, head and even the torso. Although tremors are not life-threatening, they can be a cause of social embarrassment and make daily tasks difficult to accomplish.

Tremors can be caused due to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis and brain injuries; they can also be a result of conditions, such as overactive thyroid, mercury poisoning, alcohol poisoning or withdrawal and liver or kidney failure.

Physiological tremors are seen in all healthy individuals. It is seen as fine movements of the hands and fingers and rarely visible to the naked eye. It is a normal phenomenon occurring due to the physical properties of the body, such as heartbeats and activation of muscle fibres.

Tremors are diagnosed after a careful medical history and a physical and neurological examination. Blood and urine tests can help diagnose thyroid dysfunction and poisonings, drug interactions, etc. Other diagnostic tests, such as CT scan and MRI, can diagnose diseases in the brain.

Tremors can occur in children, although they are fairly uncommon at that age. In children, the causes of tremors are idiopathic in origin, commonly associated with side effects of certain prescription medicines or as a result of diseases such as thyrotoxicosis, Wilson's disease etc. Treatment of tremors is dependent on the underlying cause.