Decoding Essential Tremor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Sometimes misunderstood or often misinterpreted as a physical quiver or shake. Essential Tremor is actually a neurological disorder. It is characterised by uncontrollable trembling or shaking in certain areas in the human body. While it's an unaffected disease, its effect on the daily routine of a person is not fully appreciated.

In this blog, we'll reveal the intricacies associated with Essential Tremor, while also looking into its causes, signs and the various options for managing it. The blog also focuses on the importance of exercising when controlling this condition.

What is Essential Tremor?

Essential Tremor (ET) is a nerve or neurological condition that results in an involuntary, rhythmic shaking of various body parts. It typically affects the arms, head hands, but often, the voice.

Essential Tremor manifests itself as a rhythmic shaking that is involuntary of specific body parts. It is most commonly felt in the arms, hands as well as the head, mouth (larynx) as well as the tongue, chin, and even the voice. The lower body isn't ever affected or affected by this condition.

ET is one of the more frequent anxiety disorder. We all have an occasional the tremors, but it isn't noticed or even felt. As we age, the intensity and frequency of tremors can become more severe. Experts say that tremor that is most often seen after the age of 65 is a form of age-related, whereas the one that begins earlier is ET.

Causes of Essential Tremor

The exact reason for ET is still unknown there is evidence of a genetic cause. Most likely, those who have a history of tremors have a higher chance of being diagnosed with ET.

Genetic mutations have been associated with the dysfunction of the cerebellum. It is the central part of the brain that moves.

In the absence of a genetic predisposition the second most frequent risk reason or a cause for ET is the age. Research has shown that ET is a common occurrence in those over 40 years old. of age.

Beyond that environmental factors, specifically exposure to certain chemicals could increase the chance of getting ET.

Symptoms of Essential Tremor

Although your body part(s) affected by ET could differ from individual to individual however, the underlying causes of tremors is common to everyone. Understanding the particular symptoms of the Essential Tremor is essential to determine the correct diagnosis and timely treatment. These are the most commonly reported signs of ET:

The rhythmic shaking is evident in voluntary movements for example, writing or holding a cup etc.

Tremors that are worsening - Certain activities, such as eating, drinking or eating. could cause tremors to become worse.

A shaky or twitchy voice

Uncontrollable shaking or nodding of head

Certain types of medication can trigger tremors.

The alcohol, particularly wine can ease tremors.

Different rhythmic shaking patterns across both the sides

In some cases, there may be tremors in feet and legs (very uncommon)

Essential Tremor Diagnosis

To be able to definitively arrive at the ET diagnosis, there's various tests carried out according to the symptoms that the patient. The tests are:

Medical background

Family family history

Neurological examination - look for tendon reflexes and posture, movement, coordination power and tonus, the ability to react to a specific stimulus

Laboratory tests - test the thyroid level, the effects of drugs and metabolic disorders, etc.

Tests for performance - test for fine motor abilities that are simple (holding a glass writing or drawing a spiral or stretching arms)

These tests may also to determine a differential diagnosis, particularly since essential Tremor as well as Parkinson's Tremor have many similarities.

You can find out more about the difference in Essential Tremor and Parkinson's Tremor here.

Managing Essential Tremor

From surgeries to medication The treatment for the condition known as Essential Tremor usually involves a multidimensional method that is tailored to the specific patient's needs. Here are a few of the most frequently recommended treatment strategies for ET:

Surgical Interventions

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

The method involves putting electrodes in specific regions in the brain. The electrodes are then connected to devices that stimulate the brain, such as the pacemaker.

Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy

It is a non-invasive treatment that makes use of ultrasound waves to cause an injury in the thalamus (the brain's tremor control area). the brain).

Non-Surgical Interventions

Stem Cell Therapy

The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory qualities associated with mesenchymal cells (MSCs) have enabled stem therapy with cells to provide more than a mere ray of optimism to people suffering from difficult neurological disorders like Essential Tremor. MSCs protect the neurons that are already in use, and can protect against further damage that can delay the progression of the disease. Additionally, MSCs may also influence the brain's neural circuits, and help to correct any malfunctioning signaling pathways. They might also be able to connect with neural networks that already exist and help improve motor function and control.

Medications

Beta blockers and anticonvulsants are prescribed to control the activity of nerve cells. This in turn can reduce the severity of shaking. If medications offer only a small amount of relief or none, DBS is recommended.

Botox Injections

For patients suffering from specific tremors that are localized, botulinum is injected into certain muscles for temporary relief.

Exercise for Essential Tremor

Oft overlooked often, exercise plays an essential part in the management of ET. At Plexus we offer tailored and individualized therapy programs for physiotherapy that relieve through focusing on the following:

Improve Coordination

The patient's workout regimen will be adapted to increase the coordination of their motors and overall skills. It also helps help to reduce the effects of tremors and help improve daily functioning.

Enhanced Muscle Control

Specific exercises are created to enhance muscle control which reduces the severity of tremors during specific tasks.

Better Stability

The strengthening of the core muscle can enhance coordination and balance. This, in turn, can improve stability and improve posture and mobility.

Stress Mitigation

Stress and anxiety are identified as triggering ET symptoms. Exercise is a great stress-reducing agent. It promotes well-being for the mind and lessens the intensity of tremors.

Plexus Recommends

Here's the advice of our expert team of physiotherapists and movement therapists suggest:

Tai Chi and Yoga

With mindfulness, gentle movement breathing control, Tai Chi and Yoga are excellent for essential Tremor control. Tai Chi helps with motor control and balance, as well as promoting the connection between body and mind. It's an excellent method of practicing mind-body for those who are searching for a non-pharmacological but whole-body method.

Yoga helps improve flexibility and strength, aids in relaxation, decreases anxiety and stress. It also emphasizes how important it is to be mindful and present (in the present moment).

The two Tai Chi and Yoga can be adjusted to meet the lifestyle of each person and their fitness levels.

Movement Therapy

It includes occupational therapy, physiotherapy and dance therapy, as well as delicate and focused movement (Feldenkrais Method) and posture and awareness (Alexander Technique) The focus of Movement Therapy is the body's awareness as well as movements. It can greatly improve the person's physical and mental well-being through improved coordination and motor control, as well as a significantly improved level of living.

Because Tai Chi and Yoga involve breathing techniques, body awareness and mindfulness at Plexus they are an integral component of our Moving Therapy programme.

If you'd like to learn more information about ET management programmes at Plexus Contact the Plexus team at Bangalore or Hyderabad now.

WhatsApp +91 89048 42087

Call +91 78159 64668 (Hyderabad) | +91 82299 99888 (Bangalore)

FAQsAre essential tremors able to be eliminated?

The symptoms of Essential Tremor are able to be treated with a variety of treatments that include medications surgery, as well as lifestyle modifications (exercise and physical exercise)

What foods help reduce the tremors?

A balanced diet that is rich with antioxidants and vitamins and minerals has been proven to aid in general well-being. Studies have shown that the omega-3 fatty acids in fruits, fish, and vegetables can offer relief from the symptoms. Be sure to discuss any diet changes with your physician.

Do essential tremors affect the brain?

It is true, Essential Tremor primarily impacts the cerebellum, which is a part of the brain that is responsible in motor coordination.

Do those with essential tremors have a longer life span?

Essential Tremor isn't an immediate threat to life. People affected by ET typically live an average life expectancy. However, it can affect your quality of life.

Is essential tremor harmful?

While it isn't harmful to health in general, essential Tremor may hinder daily functioning. This can result in adverse consequences for the individual's mental and emotional health.

A highly regarded neurologist and stem cell specialist, Dr Na’eem Sadiq studied neurology and clinical neurophysiology in London before working with some of England’s and the Middle East’s most prestigious medical institutions. He completed his MBBS