What Causes Shaking in the Body?

Shaking in your body, also called tremors, may cause you to feel self-conscious and make it difficult for you to go about your usual activities. The causes of shaking in your body depend on which body parts are affected and the duration and severity of the shaking. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, causes of shaking in your body include certain neurological disorders and lifestyle factors.

Emotions

Feeling nervous, fearful or anxious before a stressful event such as a job interview or speech may cause temporary shaking in your body.

Cold

Exposure to sudden or extremely cold temperatures may cause shaking in your body as a your body exerts effort to become warmer.

Medications

If you take medications such as amphetamines, corticosteroids or stimulants, these medications may cause side effects such as shaking in your body.

Alcohol

You may have shaking in your body after a binge of alcohol consumption, if you are alcoholic or as a side effect of withdrawal from alcohol.

Dystonia

Dystonia is the medical term for abnormal contractions of your muscles that can cause shaking all over your body or in just one location, such as your hand.

Neurological Disorders

Progressive neurological disorders such as Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease may cause symptoms such as shaking, especially in your hands and arms.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Movement Disorders