Tremor

Tremors are a type of involuntary shaking movement caused by problems with the nerves supplying certain muscles. They may affect the whole body or just certain areas. Disorders with tremor as the primary symptom include those that run in families, are drug-induced or have unknown causes. Parkinson’s disease and other illnesses may cause tremors in addition to other symptoms. Certain medical problems such as hyperthyroidism or Wilson's disease may cause tremors. Tremors may be occasional, temporary or occurring at intervals. They may affect the head, hands, arms, eyelids, or other muscles and may not affect both sides of the body equally. Some tremors disappear during sleep, some get worse with emotional stress, and others involve a quivering voice or head nodding. Tests depend on the suspected cause of the tremor and involve a neurologic examination in most cases.

Treatment may not be required if the tremors are mild and do not interfere with daily activity. If they are drug-induced, stopping the medication (with doctor supervision) is usually sufficient. If tremors are caused by a medical condition such as hyperthyroidism, the treatment will target the underlying condition, and the tremors will likely improve. The success of medications to treat tremor varies and may include anticonvulsants, and mild tranquilizers. Caffeine (in substances such as coffee and soda) and other stimulants should be avoided because they commonly worsen tremors. If tremor is severe and not responsive to medication, surgery may be helpful.

Contact us with your questions to learn more about our treatment program for tremors.