What is essential tremor? How to differentiate from Parkinson’s tremor? The doctor explains

What is essential tremor? How to differentiate from Parkinson’s tremor? The doctor explains


The problem is marked with involuntary tremors and worsens when the individual performs a specific task

I think I have an essential tremor, but I care about being the beginning of Parkinson’s disease. How to differentiate? What helps to calm the tremor?

Answer: The essential tremor is when one or more parts of the body tremble involuntarily, without another diagnostic cause. Usually it starts at the age of 40 and becomes more uncomfortable in the following decades.

The tremor is often called action tremor or intentional, since it worsens when the person performs a specific task, like taking a glass. The most common initial symptom is the tremor of the hand, but also other areas, such as arms, legs and heads, are often affected. Some people develop a trembling voice. At rest or during the sleepThe tremor tends to improve or disappear.

One of the main theories suggests that the essential tremor originates in the cerebellum (the part of the brain which controls movements and balance) or in their connections with the brain trunk, located at the base of the brain. The condition is generally hereditary. If you have an essential tremor, your children have a 50% probability of developing it.

Many people worry that tremor is a sign of Parkinson’s diseaseNot an essential tremor. But there are classic differences. In essential tremor, the involuntary tremor increases when you move and try to use your hands. In Parkinson’s disease, tremors occur mainly at rest and the activity tends to reduce tremor.

Some people with essential tremor develop balance or “yes/no” movements; This is rare in those who have Parkinson’s. The problems of balance and rigidity in the arms and legs are common characteristics of Parkinson’s disease, but not of essential tremor.

No treatment for light cases of essential tremore is required. Avoid caffeine e stressIn addition to having a good rest, it can help. In social situations, slowly consuming alcohol can reduce tremors. (This is another factor that differs from Parkinson’s tremor, which does not improve with the Alcohol.

However, if the symptoms of essential tremor compromise the quality of life, most doctors prescribe a beta blocker – usually propose – or primedon, an anticonvulsant.

If the first option does not work, it is possible to try the other; In some cases, the use of both brings better results. Other alternatives include Topiramate and Gabapentin anticonvulsifying.

Dr. Howard Lewine He is a generic doctor at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Health Publishing Capoder and editor in charge of the Harvard Men’s Health Watch publication.

This content was translated with the help of artificial intelligence tools and revised by our editorial team.Find out more in our artificial intelligence policy.

Source: Terra

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