Essential Tremor – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Essential tremor is a neurological condition that causes uncontrollable, rhythmic shaking. This trembling most commonly affects the hands, especially during simple activities like drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
While not dangerous, essential tremor typically gets worse over time and can become severe for some individuals.
Though it can occur at any age, essential tremors are most frequent in people over 40. The condition stands alone and isn’t caused by other medical issues, but it’s sometimes mistaken for Parkinson’s disease due to similar symptoms.
Key Features of Essential Tremor:
- Rhythmic, involuntary shaking
- Most often affects the hands
- Becomes noticeable during everyday tasks
- Usually worsens gradually over time
- Can appear at any age but more common after 40
Symptoms
Essential tremors typically develop slowly and often affect one side of the body more noticeably at first. These tremors become worse during movement and commonly begin in the hands—either affecting one or both.
Some people experience head movements resembling nodding “yes” or shaking “no.” Stress, tiredness, caffeine, and extreme temperatures can make these tremors more severe.
People often confuse essential tremor with Parkinson’s disease, but they differ in several important ways:
When Tremors Occur
| Essential Tremor | Parkinson’s Disease |
|---|---|
| Occurs during hand use | Most noticeable when hands are at rest |
Associated Health Issues
- Essential tremor generally doesn’t cause other health problems, though some people may develop an unsteady walk
- Parkinson’s typically includes stooped posture, slow movement, and foot dragging while walking
Body Parts Affected
- Essential tremor: Mainly involves hands, head, and voice
- Parkinson’s disease: Usually starts in hands but can spread to legs, chin, and other body areas
These differences help doctors tell these conditions apart when making a diagnosis.
Causes
About 50% of people with essential tremor have a genetic link, known as familial tremor. Scientists have found changes in certain genes that may cause this condition.
For those without a family history, the exact cause of essential tremor remains unknown.
Researchers continue to study both genetic and environmental factors that might trigger this condition. The tremors typically affect the hands but can also appear in other body parts.
Risk Factors
Research shows certain factors may increase a person’s chance of developing essential tremor:
Genetic Factors
- Having a parent with the condition gives you a 50% chance of developing it
- Only one altered gene from one parent is needed to pass on familial tremor
Age-Related Factors
- People over age 40 have a higher risk
- Risk continues to increase with advancing age
These factors help explain why some people develop tremors while others don’t, though many cases occur without a clear family history.
Complications
Essential tremor typically worsens over time and can create daily challenges. Though not dangerous to life, it may interfere with:
- Drinking without spilling
- Eating steadily
- Personal grooming tasks
- Speaking clearly
- Writing legibly
These difficulties can affect independence and confidence in social situations. Many people find ways to adapt, but some may need help with certain activities as tremors progress.
Ways to Prevent Shaking
Currently, medical science has not found specific methods to prevent essential tremor. Research continues to focus on managing symptoms, as the condition can develop regardless of lifestyle choices or preventive measures.
