What is it?
Essential tremor is a neurological condition characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling that often affects the hands but can affect any parts of the body. It is not related to Parkinson’s disease.
What are the symptoms?
Shaking occurs more often in the hands especially noticed when doing simple tasks such as buttoning shirt, tying shoelaces or writing. It is often gradual in onset and affects one side of the body. Symptoms may be worsened by stress, fatigue/tiredness, coffee intake, or even extreme weather changes.
What to expect?
If you are diagnosed with essential tremor, you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor:
- Often essential tremor when mild is left untreated; however, when severe treatment may be provided. what treatment options do you have?
- Some patients with essential tremor are referred to a physical therapist to assist in improving your muscle strength, control and coordination. Is this the case for you as well?
- A healthy diet, quitting smoking and an active lifestyle can help improve your overall health and well-being. Which changes can you make in your lifestyle?
You can also try the following things:
- Avoid caffeine.
- Learn how to relax top lessen stress.