A progressive neurological disorder most commonly manifested by tremor of the arms, which can also occur in the head, jaw, and voice. Also known as kinetic tremor. Anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as cognitive difficulties have been linked to essential tremor. Recent studies have indicated that onset after age 65 years may be associated with an increased risk of dementia.
An involuntary slow trembling movement of the hands often seen in elderly people.
A benign tremor, usually of the head, chin, outstretched hands, and occasionally the voice, that is to be differentiated from the tremor of Parkinson’s disease. Unlike Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor does not cause or presage other neurological complications. Essential tremor, which is made worse by anxiety or action, is usually 8 to 10 cycles per second and that of parkinsonism 4 to 5. Postural tremors occur when the patient tries to hold his hands in a particular position (e.g., when the hands are Outstretched). Kinetic tremors occur during purposeful movement (e.g., during finger-to-nose testing). Essential tremor affects 5 to 10 million adults and some children in the U.S. and is probably the most common movement disorder. Its incidence increases with age. In essential tremor, there is usually a family history. The medicines effective in treating parkinsonism have no effect on essential tremor.
An involuntary and unmanageable tremor affecting the hands, head, and face, referred to as familial tremor due to its hereditary nature. It may commence during adolescence or later in adulthood. The precise cause of this condition remains unknown.