Essential Tremor
By Alan Peterson, M.D.
What is essential tremor?
Essential tremor, sometimes called benign or familial tremor, is an uncontrollable shaking of the hands and forearms. You might notice this tremor when your arms are extended in front of your body. Tremor effects each person differently. Some people hardly notice it, but it embarrasses other people.
Who gets essential tremor and why?
No one knows why some people get essential tremor. It seems to run in families. You may be more likely to have a tremor if a parent or other close family member has or had a tremor. Tremor can start at any age but often happens in the teen years or in the fifties. It can get worse as you get older.
Are there different kinds of tremor?
Yes. Parkinson’s disease causes a tremor that might be noticed when your hands are resting in your lap or at the sides of your body. A stroke can cause a tremor that gets worse when you reach for something. Thyroid problems or low blood sugar can cause a mild tremor. Tremor can also be caused by some medicines, including heart medicines, decongestants, medicines for breathing problems, and tricyclic antidepressants. Drinks that contain caffeine also may cause tremor.
How can my doctor tell that I have an essential tremor?
Tell your doctor if you notice that your head or hands shake, or if your voice quivers. You may find yourself having trouble eating with a spoon or fork if it is significant enough or drinking from a cup, threading a needle, or writing. The tremor may get worse with emotional or physical stress. Your doctor will do an exam to look for possible causes. If everything else is normal, you may be diagnosed with an essential tremor.
How is essential tremor treated?
Your doctor may ask you to avoid caffeine, cold pills such as a decongestant, and some other medicines if they seem to make your tremor worse. Your doctor may prescribe medicines such as beta blockers or primidone (brand name: Mysoline). Your tremor will not go away with these medications, but it might be controlled enough to allow you to eat and drink in public without being embarrassed or allow you to write more clearly.
Where can I get more information?
Ask your doctor. A good web site is found in the International Essential Tremor Foundations site. Their site is
www.essentialtremor.org.
Dr. Peterson is a doctor of Family and Community Medicine at the Walter L. Aument Family Health Center, 317 S. Chestnut St., Quarryville.