Tremor

INVOLUNTARY SHAKING AND TREMBLING

A tremor is an involuntary sharking or trembling in part of your body — we can help you to manage your symptoms

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About

A tremor is an involuntary shaking or trembling in part of your body. Essential tremor is the most common type. People with it tend to experience shaking hands, although it can also affect your arms, legs, voice and tongue. If you're experiencing frequent or severe tremors, we can help.

Need to know

Symptoms of tremor

Slight tremors are normal. And they can get more noticeable the older you get, or if you're stressed, anxious or feel too hot or cold. Caffeine can also be a trigger so reducing your tea and coffee intake may help. Essential tremor is more severe than a normal tremor and it can get worse and more frequent over time.

Diagnosis

There isn't a specific test to diagnose essential tremor. So your HCA UK GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. They'll also carry out a physical examination. As tremors can be caused by other conditions, like hyperthyroidism or Parkinson's disease, they may also recommend further tests to rule these out.

Potential treatment options

There isn't a cure for tremor but there are treatment options available at HCA UK, which can help you to manage your symptoms. Your HCA UK GP or consultant will discuss these options with you. They might prescribe medicine to help reduce your shaking and trembling. Another treatment option may be a programme of occupational therapy or physiotherapy, which can also help to to reduce tremors and improve coordination and muscle control. In some severe cases, surgery can help to treat severe essential tremor. It's often carried out if patients aren't responding to medication.