Here is what Dr. Andrew Weil says. Excerpt: “First, you should try to find out why your hands are shaking. I would recommend seeking a neurological evaluation since there are a number of conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, that could be responsible. Another possible cause is a disorder called “essential tremor”, which is common among older adults and occurs 20 times more often than Parkinson’s disease. Unlike Parkinson’s, essential tremor isn’t due to an underlying disease and doesn’t lead to serious complications. Shaky hands also could be due to anxiety, but to reach this diagnosis, a physician must first rule out physical causes. In addition to essential tremor and Parkinson’s, shaky hands may be caused by thyroid disease, drug side effects or heavy metal poisoning. Sometimes the nature of symptoms suggests the diagnosis. For example, essential tremor usually is seen when you are using your hands, while the tremor associated with Parkinson’s typically occurs when your hands are at rest. Good luck!