Essential tremors may sound unfamiliar, but if your hands or your child’s hands shake uncontrollably, it might be a sign. Essential tremor is a common condition that affects movement and can be mistaken for other disorders like Parkinson’s. Understanding essential tremors can help you manage the symptoms and support your family.
What Are Essential Tremors?
Essential tremors, unlike Parkinson’s disease, primarily cause shaking when performing everyday tasks. This type of tremor is often noticeable when holding a spoon, brushing teeth, or even writing. It can affect various parts of the body, though the hands are most commonly impacted. Essential tremor can disrupt daily routines, making simple tasks more challenging.
Although the cause of this condition is not fully understood, research suggests that genetic factors play a significant role. Around 40% to 50% of people with essential tremor have a family history of the condition. If a parent or sibling experiences these shakes, there’s a chance it could run in your family too.
How Do Essential Tremors Affect Daily Life?
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For both parents and children, essential tremors can impact everyday activities. Imagine trying to pour a drink or write in a notebook, only to have your hands shake uncontrollably. This can be frustrating, especially for young children still learning fine motor skills. While this condition is not life-threatening, they can lead to embarrassment, especially for school-aged children. Parents may notice their children struggling with tasks like tying shoelaces or using a pencil in class.
Some adults may also develop tremors in their heads or voices, which can make social situations awkward. While the symptoms are more noticeable during actions, stress and fatigue can make the tremors worse.
How to Tell If It’s Essential Tremors, Not Parkinson’s
A common concern is whether essential tremors are the same as Parkinson’s disease. They’re not. Essential tremor tends to occur during movement, while Parkinson’s tremors often happen when the body is at rest. In this condition, both hands may shake, but Parkinson’s tremors typically start on one side of the body.
Although the two conditions are different, essential tremor patients do have a small risk of developing Parkinson’s later in life. Genetic studies show some overlap in the brain areas involved in both conditions, but they remain separate diagnoses.
Can Essential Tremors Be Managed?
Managing this condition s is possible with the right treatment. Depending on the severity, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or in rare cases, surgery. Reducing caffeine and managing stress can help decrease the intensity of tremors. Parents should also encourage their children to take breaks when they feel frustrated by the shakes.
In severe cases, medications can help control tremors, although they do not cure the condition. If your child’s essential tremor is affecting their schoolwork or daily activities, seeking medical advice is the best way forward.
Final Thoughts
Essential tremors can be challenging, especially for parents watching their children struggle with everyday tasks. Understanding this condition and seeking appropriate medical advice can make a world of difference. While the condition may never fully go away, with support, your child can continue to thrive and manage their symptoms effectively.
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