Essential Tremor: What It Is and How It Differs from Parkinson’s Disease
What is Essential Tremor?
Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of the body, but the trembling occurs most often in the hands, especially when doing 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 people¹.
What are the differences between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that initially causes tremor in one hand, stiffness or slowing of movement. Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking².
While both conditions can cause tremors, there are several key differences between essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. One of the main differences is the timing of the tremors. Essential tremor of the hands usually occurs when using the hands, while tremors from Parkinson’s disease are most noticeable when the hands are at the sides of the body or resting in the lap.
Another difference between the two conditions is the parts of the body affected. Essential tremor mainly involves the hands, head, and voice, while Parkinson’s disease tremors usually start in the hands, and can affect the legs, chin and other parts of the body.
In addition to tremors, Parkinson’s disease also causes other symptoms such as rigidity, bradykinesia (slowed movements), and balance issues. Essential tremor, on the other hand, primarily causes tremors as its main symptom.
What are the treatment options for Essential Tremor?
Medications
Several medications can help relieve symptoms of essential tremor. These include beta-blockers, anti-seizure medications, or tranquilizers which may be used to treat patients where tension or anxiety worsens tremors.
Surgery
For those with tremors that are severely disabling and do not respond to medications, deep brain stimulation may be an option². Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a safe and effective therapy used to help manage the symptoms of essential tremor. It works by delivering electrical signals to specific areas of the brain that control movement, helping to reduce symptoms such shaking associated with essential tremor as well as improve motor function and reduce difficulties with tasks that require fine motor control, such as writing or eating. Unlike other surgical therapies used to treat essential tremor, DBS is reversible, adjustable and does not ablate or destroy tissue.
Therapies
Physical therapy may help improve muscle strength, while occupational therapy can help a patient adapt to living with essential tremor².
Self-care
There are also several self-care measures that can help manage essential tremor. These include avoiding caffeine, reducing alcohol intake, practicing relaxing techniques, and making lifestyle changes such as using the hand less affected by tremor more often².
Conclusion
Essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease are two distinct conditions that can both cause tremors. However, there are several key differences between them in terms of timing and parts of the body affected by tremors as well as other symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing tremors or other symptoms mentioned above, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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