Benign Essential Tremor Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
What Is Benign Essential Tremor?
The medical term benign essential tremor causes rhythmic trembling. It is a neurological disorder; say a nervous system disorder that can affect nearly all parts of our body. Usually shaking occurs in the hands, particularly when the patient is doing his day to day simple tasks, for example shaving, writing, tying shoe laces, combing hair, drinking water or driving. Furthermore, benign essential tremor can even affect your legs, voice, head and arms.
Even though, the condition is not life-threatening, benign essential tremor can worse ultimately. The condition tends to be severe in few individuals. Moreover, it is not triggered due to any other condition or disease. It can target anyone regardless of his or her age; however it is more commonly observed in individuals between the ages of 40-60.
What Are The Symptoms Of Benign Essential Tremor?
- Its common symptoms include:
Start slowly. - Worsen by movement.
- May include a ‘no-no’ or ‘yes-yes’ head motion.
- Typically starts with your hands, affecting a particular or both hands.
- Can aggravate due to caffeine, fatigue or stress.
When Is The High Time To Consult A Doctor?
In case you notice slight shaking or trembling while performing physical tasks and are an older adult, call up for an appointment.
What Causes Benign Essential Tremor?
The factor genetic mutation is identified for causing around half of its cases. However, researchers have failed to understand what causes the condition in individuals those without a genetic mutation. However, they have found that certain changes in some particular parts of the brain can lead to the condition.
What Are The Risk Factors Of Benign Essential Tremor?
- Some factors identified for increasing the risks of benign essential tremor are:
Genetic mutation: defective gene which is passed on from a particular parent tends to increase the chances of disorder for around 50%. - Age: the disorder is commonly observed in individuals age 40 and above.
What Are The Potential Complications Of Benign Essential Tremor?
Even though, the disorder is not dangerous, however its symptoms can turn worse gradually. In case the tremor gets severe, one will feel difficulty to perform his day to day simple tasks.
How Is Benign Essential Tremor Diagnosed?
- In order to diagnose benign essential tremor, a doctor will:
Perform a thorough physical exam. - Need your family and medical history.
- Need complete details regarding your symptoms.
How Is Benign Essential Tremor Treated?
With individuals with the disorder may not need any particular treatment in case their signs are mild. However, if benign essential tremor is interfering with your day to day simple activities, ask your doctor to prepare a best treatment plan for your case. Few treatment options of benign essential tremor include:
- Medications: beta blockers, anti-seizure medications, tranquilizers, onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections.
- Therapy: occupational or physical therapy.
- Surgery: tremors that have failed to respond drug and are disabling, surgical procedure is an effective option.
By : Natural Health News