Tremor

Causes and Risks:
Tremors are caused by problems with the nerves supplying certain muscles. They can affect the whole body, or just certain areas (such as hand tremor ).

Disorders where tremor is the primary symptom include:

Other disorders, such as Parkinson's disease , may cause tremors along with other symptoms.

Prevention:
See the specific disease

Symptoms:

  • tremors
    • may be occasional (sporadic), temporary (episodic),or occurring at intervals (intermittent)
    • occur at a rate of about 6 to 10 tremors per second (when tremors are occurring)
    • may affect the head, hands, arms, eyelids, or other muscles
    • does not usually affect the lower body
    • may not affect both sides of the body equally

  • a shaking or quivering sound to voice
  • head nodding
  • tremors worsen with voluntary movement or emotional stress
  • tremors disappear during sleep



Signs and Tests:
Tests depend on the suspected cause of the tremor.

Treatment:
Treatment may not be required if the tremors are mild and do not interfere with daily activity.

Medications are variable because of individual responses to medications. Medications that may reduce tremors include propranolol, Mysoline and other anticonvulsants, and mild tranquilizers. Caffeine (in substances such as coffee and soda) and other stimulants should be avoided because they commonly worsen tremors.

Prognosis:
See the specific disorders.

Complications:
If it is severe, tremors can interfere with activities, especially fine motor skills such as writing. Speech is occasionally involved. Medications can cause side effects.

Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a persistent, unexplained tremor; or if tremors are interfering with your ability to perform daily activities.