Tremors
Tremors are fine rhythmical, alternating movements that may affect any part of the body.
There are different types of tremors, and they are classified according to their rate, rhythm, distribution, and whether they occur at rest or during muscular activity.
An Essential tremor is a slow tremor that particularly affects the hands. An Intention tremor occurs in patients with cerebellum disease when they try to reach out for an object.
A Physiological tremor is the normal tremor seen when trying to maintain posture and is sometimes seen in tired or anxious people. It is also the type of tremor seen in a condition known as Thyrotoxicosis and in someone suffering from withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol abuse.
Tremors are also seen in patients suffering from acute stress and anxiety and in this instance might be linked to their inability to relax and an increase in adrenaline.
Tremors can be characteristic of certain diseases for example Parkinson's. In this disorder, the tremor occurs in the hands whilst at rest. Here the thumb rolls against the index and middle finger in a circular movement or 'pin-rolling'.
There is a hereditary disorder called Benign Hereditary (essential) Tremor. It involves movements of different rates and rhythms and affects the hands head and voice. It can affect just one side of the body and can increase with age. It is thought to be inherited via an autosomal dominant trait in 50%of cases and can sometimes be suppressed by small amounts of alcohol.
Treatment depends on the cause, Propranalol can be effective in treating benign essential tremors, Parkinson's disease can be treated by a number of different drugs including Dopamine agonist and Anticholinergic drugs.
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