Tremor

What is Tremor

Tremor is trembling or shaking that you cannot control. Most tremors affect the hands or arms. Tremors can also affect the head, vocal cords, face, and other parts of the body. There are many types of tremors. Common types include:

  • Essential tremor. These usually occur in people older than 40. It may run in families and can happen in otherwise healthy people.
  • Resting tremor. These occur when the muscles are at rest, such as when your hands are resting in your lap. People with Parkinson’s disease often have resting tremors.
  • Postural tremor. These occur when you try to hold a pose, such as keeping your hands outstretched.
  • Kinetic tremor. These occur during purposeful movement, such as trying to touch a finger to your nose.
  • Task-specific tremor. These may occur when you perform certain tasks such as writing, speaking, or standing.
  • Psychogenic tremor. These dramatically lessen or disappear when you are distracted. They can happen in people of all ages.

Some types of tremors have no known cause. Tremors can also be a symptom of nervous system problems (neurological disorders) that may occur with aging. Some tremors go away with treatment, while others do not.

Follow these instructions at home:

Lifestyle

  • Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink a day for nonpregnant women and 2 drinks a day for men. One drink equals 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1½ oz of hard liquor.
  • Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
  • Avoid extreme heat and extreme cold.
  • Limit your caffeine intake, as told by your health care provider.
  • Try to get 8 hours of sleep each night.
  • Find ways to manage your stress, such as meditation or yoga.

General instructions

  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if you:

  • Develop a tremor after starting a new medicine.
  • Have a tremor along with other symptoms such as:
    • Numbness.
    • Tingling.
    • Pain.
    • Weakness.
  • Notice that your tremor gets worse.
  • Notice that your tremor interferes with your day-to-day life.

Summary

  • A tremor is trembling or shaking that you cannot control.
  • Most tremors affect the hands or arms.
  • Some types of tremors have no known cause. Others may be a symptom of nervous system problems (neurological disorders).
  • Make sure you discuss any tremors you have with your health care provider.
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