Essential Tremors

In March one goal for the month is to raise awareness about a condition called Essential Tremors.  

Private Home Health Care thinks this is a worthy goal.  Have you heard of this?

Essential Tremors is a neurological condition, affecting your nervous system. You get rhythmic shaking that you are unable to control.

This affects more people over the age of 40 but you can get them at any age.

Generally, it happens with your hands while you are doing a task.  Your hands may shake involuntarily tying your shoes or drinking water.  It can also affect your head.

It often happens on one side of your body and it can start slowly and worsen over time.  Emotion stress, fatigue, caffeine or extreme temperatures can exacerbate it.

While the tremors sound similar to Parkinson’s Disease they are actually quite different.

If you have Parkinson’s Disease the tremors affect the hands but also the legs, chin and other body parts.  Your hands are resting when it happens as well.  

Essential tremors can worsen and become severe for some people but in general it is not a dangerous condition.

You may find that occupational or physical therapy can be helpful.

Your doctor can also help you manage symptoms with beta blockers, anti-seizure medications, tranquilizers, and nerve blocking injections.

If you have any suspicions about starting to have this condition be sure to reach out to a medical professional.  Early diagnosis can be very helpful.