Essential tremor

Overview

It's the most common movement disorder and slowly gets worse over years.

Unlike Parkinson's, the shake is mostly during action, not at rest.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Shaking hands
• Tremor when writing or eating
• Shaking or tremor

Less common

• Head or voice tremor

When to get medical care

Causes

Genes; often unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Family history
• Older age

Possible complications

• Parkinson's disease

Diagnosis

A clinician watches the tremor.

Questions you may be asked

• Family history
• Caffeine, alcohol, medicines

The exam

A nerve exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests: Thyroid, to rule out other causes.

Treatment

Daily tricks help.

Self-care

• Cut back on caffeine
• Use heavier cups and utensils
• Rest your elbows on a table
• Manage stress

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Focused ultrasound or deep brain stimulation for severe tremor.

Prevention

It can't be prevented.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Not life-threatening; treatments help.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is this essential tremor or Parkinson's?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Essential tremor