Diseases
essential tremor
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Essential tremor is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of your body, but the trembling occurs most often in your hands — especially when you do simple tasks, such as drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
Symptoms
- begin gradually, usually more prominently on one side of the body
- worsen with movement
- usually occur in the hands first, affecting one hand or both hands
- can include a "yes-yes" or "no-no" motion of the head
- may be aggravated by emotional stress, fatigue, caffeine or temperature extremes
Causes
- about half of essential tremor cases appear to result from altered dna. this form is referred to as familial tremor. it isn't clear what causes essential tremor in people who don't have familial tremor.
Risk factors
- age. essential tremor is more common in people age 40 and older.
- altered gene.
Diagnosis
- neurological examination
- laboratory tests
- performance tests
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is essential tremor?
Essential tremor is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of your body, but the trembling occurs most often in your hands — especially when you do simple tasks, such as drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
What are the symptoms of essential tremor?
begin gradually, usually more prominently on one side of the body, worsen with movement, usually occur in the hands first, affecting one hand or both hands, can include a "yes-yes" or "no-no" motion of the head, may be aggravated by emotional stress, fatigue, caffeine or temperature extremes
What causes essential tremor?
about half of essential tremor cases appear to result from altered dna. this form is referred to as familial tremor. it isn't clear what causes essential tremor in people who don't have familial tremor.
Which medicines are used for essential tremor?
propranolol
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