Guide To The Causes Of Hand Tremors

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition that impairs movement. It often starts with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand that occurs at rest. As the disease worsens, patients may also experience stiffness and slowing of movements. Their writing and speech may be altered. Doctors diagnose Parkinson's disease with neurological examinations and imaging studies. Patients may need to have repeated tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatments for Parkinson's disease include medications such as carbidopa-levodopa and dopamine agonists. These medications can help reduce tremors and make it easier for patients to move and write. If medication is ineffective, doctors may consider a surgical procedure known as deep brain stimulation. This procedure may temporarily halt tremors and other involuntary movements, and it also reduces muscle rigidity.

Essential Tremor

Essential tremor is a neurological condition. Thankfully, it is often harmless. Patients with this disorder experience significant involuntary shaking. This shaking is rhythmic for many patients. Although this disorder can affect any part of an individual's body, it is the most common in the hands. Thus, some patients have hand tremors because they have essential tremor. Reports indicate that patients deal with this condition the most during activities such as tying their shoes or writing.

It is vital to note that other conditions do not cause essential tremor. However, many patients often mistake essential tremor for Parkinson's disease. Many patients do not need medical treatment for essential tremor, since it is often mild. In serious cases, patients have a variety of medication options.