Shaking when Excited

by Jenny
(Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India)

Hello Doctor, I'm a 19 year old student. I weigh 56 kgs and am 172 cms long. My periods are regular and I exercise regularly. Whenever I am really excited on occasions like before I go to speak on the stage or attend a function, my hands start shaking uncontrollably. It causes me a lot of embarrassment as when I have to hold the mic in my hand, it moves vigorously much to the notice of the audience. What can I do to stop this shaking? I don't have any history of medical illness, nor do I smoke or drink. I haven't tried any treatments yet. I will be really grateful to you if you can help me.

Stage Fright

You are suffering from stage fright or anxiety in these situations. Shaking, palpitations, sweating, feeling of impending doom are common symptoms and it is only natural to experience anxiety in this situation. Traditionally people use to have a alcoholic drink to give them “Dutch courage”, but this is not something I would advocate to be honest. Sometimes hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help in this situation.

Your doctor could look at giving you a benzodiazepine such as Valium, but again this shouldn’t be used in long term use. Beta blockers may have a role too.

Overall, my advice is to try and relax and enjoy yourself. Thinking about it will only serve to make things worse.




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