Feeling strange vibrations can be disconcerting but they often improve with hormones
We know more than ever about perimenopause and menopause but still some symptoms aren’t often discussed or thought by some to be linked to hormones, including internal tremors. When we first published an article about internal tremors, it received an incredible response from our audience and it has remained one of our most-read articles. So, while research remains elusive, we know this topic resonates with women. Let’s take a deeper dive…
What are internal tremors?
A tremor is an involuntary quivering movement or shake. The NHS says it’s normal to have a slight tremor – if you hold your hands out, they will not be completely still [1]. However, an internal tremor (also sometimes known as internal vibration) is felt within your body and cannot be seen by anyone. It can occur all over your body or can be localised.
What does it feel like?
Internal vibrations can feel like a buzzing, vibrating, shaking or quivering. Some women describe the sensation as feeling like a phone or bees are buzzing inside them. The sensation is often not debilitating but it can be unnerving and can act as a distraction from everyday life.
RELATED: My story: internal tremors and the menopause
Are internal tremors linked to perimenopause and menopause?
Newson Clinic GP and Menopause Specialist Catherine Shire says: ‘Although they can be associated with perimenopause and menopause, they are not a commonly recognised symptom by many people. The underlying mechanism for these internal tremors is not fully understood. Women and health professionals often worry that these are caused by a neurological problem and women frequently undergo extensive investigations without a neurological diagnosis.’
Compared to other perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, not a lot is known about internal tremor and there is a lack of relevant studies on the potential link. However, we do know that hormone receptors for oestradiol (oestrogen), progesterone and testosterone are found in cells throughout your body and that these three hormones are important for nerve function. Hormonal fluctuations could be described like a type of misfiring, which causes the sensation of internal tremor.
Some women who are perimenopausal and still having periods might find they only get the internal tremors at a particular point in their cycle, which helps to indicate that fluctuating hormones are the underlying cause. However, as hormones fluctuate a lot throughout the cycle (even within the day) during perimenopause, some women may experience them throughout the month without a discernible pattern.
RELATED: Understanding hormone levels in your blood
What else could cause internal tremors?
There is no diagnostic test for internal tremors and there could be a variety of reasons for experiencing them. It is important, therefore, to rule out other causes before assuming perimenopause or menopause is the underlying cause.
Researchers have suggested that anyone can experience internal tremors, but they are more pronounced in people with Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and essential tremor [2]. Other potential causes include low iron, vitamin B12 or vitamin D deficiencies or diabetes. You should speak to your doctor if you are experiencing internal tremors in order to rule these out.
Is there a treatment for internal tremors?
‘I recommend keeping a record of the tremors and any other symptoms you are experiencing,’ says Dr Shire. ‘Completing the symptom checker on the balance app can be very helpful for this. It is important to discuss all these symptoms with your GP who will decide if you require any investigations such as blood tests and scans.
‘A trial of HRT and testosterone is often helpful, particularly if you are experiencing other symptoms suggesting that you are perimenopausal or menopausal.’
There are some triggers for internal tremors that you can influence. Caffeine and foods that are high in salt or sugar can affect your nervous system so it’s worth completing a food diary to see if there any triggers for you. Stress can overstimulate your nervous system so try to build relaxation into your day.
RELATED: Why can perimenopause and menopause be so stressful?
Exercise can help improve nerve function but avoid intense exercise or doing it in heat, as this may have an impact. Similarly, hydration can affect your nervous system so ensure you are drinking enough.
Your healthcare professional will be able to advise if internal tremors are a side effect of any medication you are taking, and you may be prescribed a vitamin B complex if you are low on B12.
Many women find that their internal tremors improve when they are prescribed the right dose and type of hormones – often a combination of oestradiol, progesterone and testosterone. Speak to your healthcare professional for an individualised conversation about treatment to suit you.
RELATED: How to talk to your doctor about HRT – and get results
