Trembling

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with the history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to figure out the cause. Further tests are needed in other cases.

The tests ordered will depend on the suspected cause. For example, thyroid function blood tests can detect hyperthyroidism. A blood glucose level can detect hypoglycemia.

An electroencephalogram, or EEG, is a test that can be used to detect seizures. It involves taping several wires to the scalp to measure the electricity in the brain, often called brain waves. Special x-rays of the brain, such as a cranial CT scan, may be ordered if brain damage is suspected.