That noticeable shaking in the hands, or the ‘no-no’ nod are two giveaways. They are both common manifestations of a tremor disorder; the most common being the essential tremor.
“A tremor is a rhythmic oscillatory movement of a muscle, so in other words shaking up and down, most commonly the hand but it can involve the head. It can involve the trunk or the voice as well. Essential tremor is a type of tremor, it usually is hereditary it is usually benign, it occurs in middle age,” says Dr. Amanda Avila, neurologist on Lee Memorial Health System’s medical staff.
These tremors progress slowly over a lifetime. When they start to interfere with everyday activities is when people seek out a neurologist.
“Essential tremor is a disorder of the brain, there are some abnormal signals in the brain and that miscommunicates with the muscles and that causes the tremor. People’s muscles are totally normal,” says Dr. Avila.
There are two distinctions in treating these tremors. One is non-invasive, using therapy and adaptive devices. The second involves medical techniques, from drugs to deep brain stimulation. The degree of treatment depends on the degree of dysfunction.
“Sure, the most common thing people have concerns about is their handwriting. So over time tremors can interfere with the ability for people to write legibly. We usually just prescribe or suggest occupational therapy. Occupational therapists have some adaptive devices that can be helpful. Heavier pens, heavier forks and knives, different grip for pencils,” says Dr. Avila.
Another thing within a patient’s grasp is environmental control. Simple changes like avoiding anxiety-provoking situations and cutting out caffeine can help calm the nerves and the shakes.