About Essential Tremor

Essential tremor is the most common type of tremor. In general, tremors occur when there is a problem with the nerves supplying certain muscles. Everyone has some essential tremor but the movements are usually so small that they can't be seen. Noticeable essential tremors can be seen at any age but are most common in individuals who are older than 65. The specific cause for essential tremor is still unknown, but some research suggests that the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls muscles movements, does not work correctly in patients with essential tremor. The shaking usually involves small, rapid movements that happen more than 5 times a second. The tremor is usually most obvious in the hands, but may affect the arms, head, eyelids, and/or other muscles. People with essential tremor may have trouble holding or using small objects such as silverware or a pen. Treatment isn't necessary unless the tremors interfere with your daily activities or cause embarrassment. Medicines may help relieve symptoms. How well medicines work depend on the individual patient.

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SoCal MDS Neurology News Blog:
DATScan - New Tool to Aid in the Differentiation Between Essential Tremor and Parkinsonian Syndromes

Educational Websites

Tremor Action Network
Tremor Action Network's (TAN) goals are to spread awareness of essential tremor and tremor-related neurological movement disorders by advocating for a cure through research. They want to educate the public at large about those who are afflicted with essential tremor and tremor related neurological movement disorders. They also connect the tremor community and help them have a collective voice in order to inform government agencies and acquire funding for research.

Essential tremor can also occur with other neurological conditions such as dystonia, parkinsonism, and certain inherited nerve conditions. If an essential tremor occurs in more than one member of a family, it is called a familial tremor. Familial tremor is usually a dominant trait, which means that you only need to get the gene from one parent to develop the disorder.