What is essential tremor?
Essential tremor is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking.
It can affect almost any part of your body, but the trembling occurs most often in your hands — especially when you do simple tasks, such as drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
Essential tremor is usually not a dangerous condition, but it typically worsens over time and can be severe in some people.
Essential tremor is sometimes confused with Parkinson's disease.
Essential tremor can occur at any age but is most common in people age 40 and older.
Symptoms
Essential tremor signs and symptoms:
- Begin gradually, usually more prominently on one side of the body
- Worsen with movement
- Usually occur in the hands first, affecting one hand or both hands
- Can include a "yes-yes" or "no-no" motion of the head
- May be aggravated by emotional stress, fatigue, caffeine or temperature extremes
Causes
About half of essential tremor cases appear to result from a genetic mutation. This form is referred to as familial tremor.
It isn't clear what causes essential tremor in people without a known genetic mutation.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/symptoms-causes/syc-20350534
