They are a type of involuntary shaking movement.
Causes, incidence and risk factors
The tremors are caused by problems in the nerves of certain muscles and can affect the whole body or only certain parts (such as hand tremor).
The disorders in which tremor is the primary symptom include:
* Familial tremor (Family)
* Essential tremor (no known cause)
* Drug-induced tremor (drugs known to induce more tremor include valproic acid, lithium and cyclosporine)
Other disorders such as Parkinson’s disease like other diseases, can cause tremors and other symptoms. Similarly, certain medical problems such as hyperthyroidism or Wilson’s disease may cause tremor.
Symptoms
* Earthquakes
or may be occasional (sporadic), temporary (episodic) or occur at intervals (intermittent)
or may affect the head, hands, arms, eyelids or other muscles
or may not affect both sides of the body equally
* Sound shaky or tremulous voice
* Vertical movements of the head (nodding)
* Tremors that worsen with voluntary movement or emotional stress
* Tremors that disappear during sleep
Exams and Tests
Tests depend on the suspected cause tremor occurs. However, in most cases it should conduct a neurological examination.
Treatment
You may not require treatment if the tremors are mild and do not interfere with daily activity. If the tremors are induced by drugs, stopping them is usually sufficient, but never stop a medication without medical supervision. If tremors are caused by medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, the treatment point to the underlying condition and the tremors are likely to improve.
The success of drugs to treat tremors is variable and depends on individual response. Drugs that may reduce tremors include propranolol, Mysoline and other anticonvulsants, and mild tranquilizers. Caffeine (in substances such as coffee and soda) and other stimulants should be avoided because they usually worsen tremors.
Surgery is recommended to reduce tremor if it is severe and not responsive to drug treatment.
Complications
If the tremor is severe may interfere with certain activities, especially fine motor like writing and sometimes affects speech. Medications can cause side effects.
Calling your health care
Call your health care provider if persistent, unexplained tremor or if tremors interfere with the performance of activities of daily living.
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