If you’re experiencing uncontrolled shaking in various parts of your body, then you may have essential tremor, a movement disorder affecting approximately 10 million Americans. The experienced neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, with offices serving the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, and Utica, Michigan, specialize in neurological conditions like essential tremor and can provide treatment to manage the shaking and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment at the office nearest you online or by phone today to learn more.
Essential tremor is a neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable shaking. The condition can affect any part of your body, but most often affects the hands. Essential tremor isn’t life-threatening, but the condition worsens with time and can significantly impact your quality of life.
If you’re experiencing involuntary shaking in any part of your body, the team at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC can help.
The symptoms of essential tremor usually start gradually and may only affect one side of your body. You may notice that your tremors worsen with movement or are aggravated by emotional stress or caffeine.
You may have concerns that your shaking is an early sign of Parkinson’s disease. However, one of the key differences between these two conditions is that the hand-shaking with essential tremor is worse with movement, while with Parkinson’s disease the shaking is worse with rest.
You may be at risk of developing essential tremor if it runs in your family. Researchers have identified the genetic mutation that causes the neurological condition.
Your neurological specialist at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine if your involuntary shaking is due to essential tremor. During your evaluation, your specialist reviews your medical and family history and conducts a physical exam.
Then, your specialist conducts special testing, including a neurological test, blood work, and a performance exam. If it’s not clear that your tremors are due to essential tremor, your specialist may recommend a dopamine transporter scan to rule out Parkinson’s disease.
Treatment for your essential tremor may depend on the severity of your condition. In mild cases, you may not require any treatment. But if your shaking is making it difficult for you to complete daily tasks, your specialist may prescribe medications to help control your condition, such as:
You may also benefit from occupational therapy to help you manage your daily tasks. If your tremors are disabling, your specialist may recommend more invasive treatments such as deep brain stimulation or focused ultrasound thalamotomy.
Essential tremor is common and can be managed. For expert care, call Michigan Neurology Associates & PC or schedule an appointment online today.
