Q: I’ve recently developed a tremor in my hands. Could this be Parkinson’s disease?

A: Not necessarily. Although tremor — involuntary shaking of any part of the body — is the most common initial symptom of Parkinson’s disease, there are many other potential explanations. Other possible causes include an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, caffeinated drinks and an inherited family trait. Your doctor will need to know whether the tremor is worse when you are quiet and resting or when you reach for objects. Tremors due to Parkinson’s are most noticeable when the hands are at rest. You also should tell your doctor what medications you are taking, how much caffeine you consume, whether there is any family history of tremor and whether alcohol consumption affects the tremor. This information will help your doctor determine the cause.