Essential tremor: I've noticed a slight shake in my hands over the past couple of years but it never really bothered me. However, once I developed a nodding of my head, my wife insisted I go see our doctor. I have been told I have something called benign essential tremor. Can you tell me what this is?
An essential tremor mainly affects the hands and head, but can also affect the chin, tongue and legs. It can come on at any age and is called benign because it is not serious.
Although the exact cause is not known, it is thought that the amounts of certain chemicals needed for the smooth transmission of nerve impulses may be in short supply.
It is a relatively common problem and has a tendency to run in families. Typically, a slight tremor begins in one hand and spreads to the other.
In severe cases, it may interfere with writing and other activities requiring fine hand movements. Anxiety can make it worse.
My father also had a shake although we always assumed it was mild Parkinson's disease.
What's the difference between essential tremor and Parkinson's?
Essential tremor is often confused with Parkinson's disease but it is not the same condition. Parkinson's disease is caused by an imbalance of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that regulates movement.
This imbalance can lead to stiff, slow movements; difficulty starting an action; a shuffling walk; slow speech and loss of facial expression.
Parkinson's tremor is worse when the hands are resting and tends to disappear when the hands are being used to do things.
In contrast, those with essential tremor will notice that when they hold out their hands, the tremor is evident and their walking pattern remains normal.
Head movements associated with essential tremor can result in either a shaking motion or a nodding motion, but can usually be controlled by supporting the head.
Will I need tablets for this?
Essential tremor is not usually a serious condition and most people cope normally with life without any disability. Education about the condition and reassurance is usually all that is required. The majority of sufferers do not need medication.
However, sufferers who find their tremor is worse when anxious may be helped by medication. Alcohol has been found by some to reduce the tremor, but is not recommended as a treatment and should only be used in moderation.