Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease: How They Differ

Nervous System Mia Garnsey

Differences between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease

Here are some key differences between essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease:

Tremor development: Tremor is a key symptom of essential tremor. About 75 percent of people with Parkinson’s develop tremor.
Type of tremor: People with essential tremor generally have tremors during movement. But with Parkinson’s it mostly occurs when the person is at rest.
Tremor frequency: The movement of essential tremor generally occurs at a higher frequency than Parkinsonian tremors. Although the magnitude of Parkinsonian tremor is usually higher, essential tremor movement is more variable.
Tremor duration: In a 2016 study, it was discovered that people with essential tremor reported three times as many waking hours experiencing tremor than people with Parkinson’s disease.
Family history: Based on studies, essential tremor is seen to be linked to family history in about half cases but only 15 percent [6] of Parkinson’s cases are linked to family history.
Other symptoms: With Parkinson’s one is more likely to experience symptoms, such as trouble balancing and walking, as well as stiff muscles and slow movement.
Neurological pathway: Parkinson’s disease has to do with the loss of cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra that produces dopamine. While, essential tremor is thought to occur due to changes in the brain stem, and possibly cerebellum.
Progression: With Parkinsonian tremor, it usually starts on one side of the body then spreads to the other side, while with essential tremor it affects both sides in the beginning.

Conclusion

Essential tremor and Parkinson’s and not the same, but they do have some similar characteristics and symptoms that can make it difficult to differentiate. They are both progressive and can end up becoming severe. It is important that you discuss with your doctor if you notice any of the symptoms. Once your doctor identifies the condition you are experiencing, he can immediately begin treatment.

Reference:

[1] https://www.ninds.nih.gov/

[2] https://www.nia.nih.gov/

[3] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

[4] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/

[5] https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/what-is-a-datscan-and-should-i-get-one/

[6] https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/causes/genetics

Mia Garnsey October 24, 2022

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