What is meant by Tremor?
Tremor is a rhythmic, vibration-like involuntary shaking of one or multiple body parts. Certain types of tremors, such as those associated with Parkinson's disease or hindbrain and cerebellum disorders, can be debilitating. These tremors can impact not only limbs (typically starting with the upper limbs) but also the trunk, head, neck, and voice. While Parkinson's disease is often assumed to be the primary cause, it might surprise you to learn that anxiety, thyroid disorders, and Benign Essential Tremors (a genetic condition) are more common culprits than Parkinson's disease. Depending on their severity, tremors can make everyday activities like writing or fastening shoelaces/shirt buttons challenging.
Who can get Tremors?
Practically anyone can experience tremors, but those with a family history of tremors are more susceptible.
Diagnosis of Tremor
Dr. Sweta Adatia is highly qualified, trained, and experienced in differentiating among various types and causes of tremors. With extensive expertise, Dr. Sweta Adatia initiates a thorough physical examination to pinpoint the cause of the tremor (Dr. Sweta Adatia's profile).
During observation and physical examination, significant indicators include fine, coarse, resting, or target-approximation (worsening when touching the tip of one's nose) tremors. Dr. Sweta Adatia follows up with simple blood tests to check blood sugar, thyroid hormone, suspected drug toxicity, copper levels, and liver function. In some cases, advanced modalities like functional MRI or TRODAT scan may be necessary, especially for early Parkinson's disease or when confirmatory investigations are requested by the patient. An MRI may be needed to rule out stroke-induced damage to the Red Nucleus, resulting in a rare tremor type known as Rubral/wing-beating tremor. MRI is also crucial for excluding degenerative diseases of the hindbrain or cerebellum causing intention/action tremors.
In the evaluation process, Dr. Sweta Adatia may conduct simple performance tests, such as outstretching arms, touching the nose with the index finger, or drawing a spiral on paper.
Treatment for tremors depends on identifying the cause. The approach to treating tremors due to Parkinson's disease differs significantly from that for tremors caused by thyroid disorders. Botox injections may be effective for voice tremors.
Recommended Lifestyle Modifications to Supplement Tremor Treatment:
- Avoiding caffeine and alcoholic beverages
- Managing stress and inappropriate anxiety
- Regular exercise