Treatment of Essential Tremor: Diagnosis and Treatment

The control of our limbs is an important aspect in our life. A person needs to have control over their hands and body to perform daily tasks. But there are diseases that can significantly interfere with the performance of daily tasks. One such disease is essential tremor.

This disease is not dangerous to human health. But this condition causes many difficulties during routine tasks. It can be hard to cope with drinking, holding objects, or washing dishes. But fortunately, this condition can be usually treated.

In our article, we will tell you about the methods for diagnosing essential tremors. We will also provide you with information on professional treatment. And you can also learn about the home treatment of essential tremors. Read our article so that your body is always under your control and you enjoy life.

 Essential Tremor Diagnosis

Here is a general overview of the steps involved in diagnosing essential tremor:

• Medical history. A doctor will ask about the patient’s symptoms. It includes the pattern and duration of tremors as well as any other related medical conditions or medications.
• Physical examination. The doctor will examine the patient’s movement and coordination. It includes any tremors or other involuntary movements. They may also assess posture, gait, and muscle strength.
• Neurological examination. The specialist will perform a thorough neurological examination. It can be an essential tremor test of balance, reflexes, and sensory function. They may also assess the patient’s speech and hand coordination.
• Laboratory tests. Blood tests, imaging studies, and other laboratory tests may be performed. They are to rule out other underlying medical conditions that can cause the tremors.
• Electrophysiological tests. Electrophysiological tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, may be performed to help in diagnosing essential tremor and determine the extent of nerve damage.
• Challenges tests. Tests like holding a glass of water or drinking from a cup may assess the severity of tremors and their impact on daily activities.
• Differential diagnosis. The doctor will also consider other conditions that may cause tremors, such as Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, or multiple sclerosis, and rule them out.

A diagnosis of essential tremor is usually based on a combination of the patient’s:

• Symptoms.
• Physical examination.
• Essential tremor test results.

In some cases, a definitive diagnosis may need further testing or a second opinion.

Treatment of Essential Tremor

Essential tremor can be a disabling condition that affects a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available for essential tremors. 

Treatment of any disease most often involves many factors. This helps to affect as many areas of the disease as possible and to carry out therapy better. Essential tremor is no exception.

To treat this disease, doctors often resort to many solutions. Among them are most often distinguished:

• Medication.
• Therapy.
• Surgery.
• Nerve stimulation devices.

As a result, if you feel the symptoms of the disease, you need to contact a specialist for help. Common symptoms of essential tremors include kinetic and postural trembling of the hands, head, lower jaw, lips, eyelids, vocal cords, less often – legs, and torso.

Essential tremor can be a disabling condition that affects a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available for essential tremor. Now let’s take a look at popular professional treatment options for essential tremor.

Medication

Antidepressants, beta-blockers, and anticonvulsants are the most commonly prescribed medications for essential tremor. These medications work by altering the activity of certain chemicals in the brain. And they reduce the severity of tremors. 

Some of the most commonly used medications include propranolol, primidone, and gabapentin. But these cures for essential tremors may cause side effects. 

They can be:

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Blurred vision.

Therapy

Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help with essential tremor. They improve coordination and reduce the impact of tremors on their daily activities. Physical therapy can help improve posture, balance, and muscle strength. And occupational therapy can help people learn new techniques for performing everyday tasks. It can help with eating and dressing with less difficulty.

Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat essential tremor. One of the most common surgical procedures used to treat essential tremor is deep brain stimulation. It involves implanting electrodes into the brain and delivering electrical stimulation to the affected area. This can help reduce the severity of tremors and improve quality of life.

Nerve Stimulation Devices

There are also non-invasive nerve stimulation devices as a cure for essential tremors. They can treat essential tremor. One such device is a hand-held vibrating device. It can be placed against the affected limb. It provides a sense of sensory feedback that can help reduce tremors. Another device is a wearable device. It delivers electrical stimulation to the nerves in the arm. This helps to reduce the severity of tremors.

In conclusion, there are various treatment options available for essential tremor. And the best option will depend on the severity of the tremors. It is vital to work with a doctor or specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Complications of Treatment

The treatment of essential tremor can sometimes lead to complications. Here is a list of potential complications associated with each type of treatment.

Home Remedies for Tremor

There are many home remedies that can help ease symptoms:

• Exercise. Regular exercise can help improve tremors by building strength, flexibility, and coordination. Simple activities like walking, swimming, and yoga reduce tremors and improve health.
• Relaxation techniques. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate tremors. So it is important to incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation help calm the mind. And it reduces tremors as a result.
• Massage. Massaging the affected area can help reduce tremors. It’s done by promoting blood flow and reducing muscle tension. Gentle massages using essential oils such as lavender or chamomile help improve relaxation.
• Acupuncture. Acupuncture is another home remedy for tremors. It’s ancient Chinese therapy. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. It balances the flow of energy and promotes relaxation. Research suggests that acupuncture can help reduce tremors and improve well-being.
• Vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet with adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals helps reduce tremors. Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 can help improve tremors by supporting healthy nerve function. Magnesium and calcium can also help reduce tremors.
• Herbs. Some herbs, such as ginkgo biloba, passionflower, and valerian root, reduce tremors. But it is vital to consult with a doctor before taking any herbal remedies. It’s because they may interact with other medications and have potential side effects.

It’s vital to note that home remedies for tremors should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing tremors, it is important to consult with a doctor. They can determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Bottom Line 

As a result, essential tremor is a complex disease. It negatively affects a person’s daily routine and can lead to negative complications. But with the right treatment and diagnosis, any patient can improve their condition.

FAQs 

• What is the first line treatment for essential tremor?

The first-line treatment for essential tremor typically involves medications. They are beta-blockers, primidone, propranolol, or topiramate. In some cases, anticonvulsants may be great. In severe cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be used.

• What is the main cause of essential tremors?

The main cause of essential tremors is not fully understood. But it can involve changes in certain areas of the brain that control movement. Some theories suggest that a combination of genetic and environmental factors develop the essential tremors.

• How do you calm down essential tremors?

There is no one sure way to calm down essential tremors. But some techniques that may help include:

1. Deep breathing.
2. Meditation.
3. Progressive muscle relaxation.

Also, avoiding caffeine or stress can also help reduce the severity of tremors.

• What improves essential tremor?

You can improve ET with medications, and lifestyle changes. And in severe cases, surgical interventions such as deep brain stimulation can help. Physical therapy and occupational therapy can also help improve fine motor skills. And it reduces the impact of tremors on daily activities.