Tremor
A tremor is a neurological condition that affects daily living. Characterized by involuntary, repetitive, rhythmic shaking or twitching movement, tremors typically affect the hands and head but may occasionally occur in the feet or torso as well.
Two of the most common types of tremors are essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Sometimes mistaken for one another, ET is associated with shaking during movement while PD tremors happen while at rest. ET is the most common trembling disorder people experience.
Essential tremor symptoms
The primary symptoms associated with ET include uncontrollable shaking that:
- Occurs for brief periods of time
- Begins gradually, usually on one side of your body
- Occurs in the hands first, affecting one hand or both
- Can include a shaking voice or tremor of your head
- Worsens during periods of emotional stress and purposeful movement
Who is affected by essential tremor?
ET is most common among people older than 60, but it can affect people at any age. Although the cause is unknown, one theory is that the cerebellum (part of the brain that controls muscle coordination) and other parts of the brain are not communicating correctly.
In most people, the condition seems to be passed down from parent to child. Since ET may be mistaken for these diseases, careful diagnosis by a neurologist is important.
Other causes of tremor
Tremors also can be caused by caffeine and certain medical conditions, or by medications that affect the nervous system, such as liver failure and other medical illnesses.
Treatment and next steps
Depending on the cause of the tremor, your treatment can vary. For some people, avoiding potential contributors, such as caffeine, nicotine and alcohol, can help. Stress can also play a role, so stress relaxation techniques may help.
Treatment options for ET can include medications, Botox injections and surgical options, such as deep brain stimulation.
Innovations in tremor treatment
Lehigh Valley Fleming Neuroscience Institute, in partnership with Jefferson’s Vickie & Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, offers focused ultrasound, an innovative technique that uses precision sound waves to treat the symptoms of both ET and PD without an incision. If your quality of life is negatively affected by essential tremor, speak with your primary care or neurology clinician to determine if focused ultrasound is right for you.
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