A tremor is a condition that occurs when you experience involuntary muscle contraction that causes one to shake or shiver. Many people associate tremors with Parkinson’s disease, but they are also caused by a different movement disorder called essential tremor.
Essential tremor is said to affect up to 7 million people in the United States. It is at least 8 times more common than Parkinson’s disease. The most significant symptom of essential tremor is a tremor that occurs in both hands.
Parkinson’s disease is a severe health issue that causes problems with movement. It is more common among old people, especially people above 60 years.
Not everyone who has Parkinson’s disease develops a tremor. However, when Parkinson’s tremor occurs, it is usually during rest and at a slower frequency compared to that of essential tremor.
It can be difficult to distinguish between essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease, especially in the early stages of the disease.
This article will discuss with you the difference and similarities between the two conditions, as well as the symptoms they each cause.
What Is Essential Tremor?
Essential tremor is quite a common neurological condition that causes uncontrollable tremors. The recurrence of the tremor may either be barely noticeable or cause serious problems with everyday activities.
Research has discovered that about half of the cases of essential tremor can be traced to genetic factors. The exact cause of the condition is still unknown, but it is thought that changes in your brain stem, and possibly cerebellum play a role.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, [1] onset most commonly occurs after the age of 40. It generally slowly gets worse over time, but may stabilize in some people.