What is a Tremor?
A Tremor is a rhythmic shaking movement in one or more parts of the body. It is something that we cannot control. This shaking happens because of muscle contraction. It can occur in any part of the body. It’s usually the result of a problem in the part of the brain that controls muscular movement.
Causes
The true cause of the tremor is still not known. Tremors are caused by the problem in the deep parts of the brain that controls movement. The most common causes of tremors are extreme muscle fatigue from exercise, anxiety, medication side effects, consuming too much caffeine, aging, low blood sugar level, lack of vitamins, or increased stress.
Symptoms
It is a common movement disorder that occurs in one part or limb of the body. The main symptoms of tremor are shaking of hands, legs, or head that cannot be controlled, shaking voice, balance problems, difficulty in writing or holding anything, or worsening of tremor during emotional stress and less sleep.
Types
Tremors are most commonly classified by clinical features or origin. There are two better-known forms of tremor which include resting tremor and action tremor. Resting tremor occurs when the muscle is relaxed. With this disorder, a person’s hands, arms or legs may shake even when they are at rest while action tremor occurs with the voluntary movement of a muscle.
Treatment
A neurologist can determine whether the tremor occurs primarily during action or at rest and a detailed family history can indicate if that tremor is inherited. The appropriate treatment of tremor depends on the accurate diagnosis of the cause. A few medications can help relieve symptoms temporarily and surgeries may also help to ease certain tremors.
Treatment at home
To relieve tremors, the patient should avoid caffeine, use less alcohol, make some lifestyle changes and learn to relax. Physical therapies and occupational therapies may also help to improve coordination and muscle control.
When to see a doctor?
Tremor is most common among middle-aged and older adults although it can occur at any age and this disorder generally affects men and women equally. Though tremors are not life-threatening but need to be cured on time. A person should seek a neurologist if he/she is experiencing shaking of hands, legs, or head or other symptoms of tremor.
