If you have an essential tremor disorder, your hands will shake rhythmically. Also, it can include your head, voice, and tongue. The cause of this neurological disorder is unknown; however, it is usually associated with genetics. Because essential tremors may be confused with other kinds of New York tremors, a patient should get the right diagnosis. Tremors can get worse with certain things, so avoiding them can help.
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Understanding Essential Tremors
Essential tremors are usually confused with Parkinson’s disease because they share the same symptoms such as hand and head shaking. These tremors are common among people aged at least 65; however, they can impact anyone at any age. Some medical specialists propose that tremors experienced earlier in life must be considered essential tremors while those that occur later in life are considered age-related tremors. The symptoms of these conditions may be different and respond to treatments differently.
Why Essential Tremors Occur
A theory suggests that essential tremors are due to incorrect communication between the cerebellum and other brain parts. The cerebellum is responsible for controlling muscle coordination. Most essential tremors are passed down from parents to children. In some instances, ancillary testing like genetic testing or brain imaging can help diagnose the condition.
Common Symptoms of Essential Tremors
Essential tremors can have a sufferer sharing and trembling at various times and situations. However, it is common for these tremors to happen when a person moves. The tremors can worsen with some medications, stress, and caffeine or improve when a sufferer ingests a small amount of alcohol like wine. Also, they tend to get worse with age and can impact both sides of the body differently. In addition, essential tremors are most obvious in the hands and can cause uncontrollable head- nodding.
Treatment for Essential Tremors
Patients with essential tremors are prescribed propranolol and primidone. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that works by blocking the stimulating action of neurotransmitters to calm the trembling. But, it is not prescribed to patients who have asthma, congestive heart failure, and emphysema and diabetic patients on insulin should use it with caution. The drug may minimize tolerance to exercise, exacerbate depression, lower heart rate or blood pressure, and cause impotence. Meanwhile, primidone works by controlling neurotransmitter actions. It can cause patients to experience nausea, dizziness, and unsteadiness during early treatment. Also, they may feel sedated.
Patients with serious tremors may need to go through surgery. During the procedure, a deep brain stimulator is implanted into the brain.