Tremor, or tremor, refers to the unintentional, rhythmic and uncontrollable shaking or movement of a part of the body or a limb. These movements typically affect one or more muscle groups and are involuntary. Tremors can occur anywhere in the body, but are most common in the hands. Tremors are caused by involuntary contraction and relaxation of muscles.
Tremor usually occurs as a primary health problem, but can sometimes be a symptom or side effect of other health problems. Treatment options vary depending on the cause of tremor, its severity and how it affects a person's quality of life. In some cases, medications or surgical interventions can help control tremor. In addition, lifestyle changes and rehabilitation exercises can also contribute to the management of tremor. Therefore, it is important for people with tremor to talk to a health professional and find out about appropriate treatment options.
What are the Types of Tremor?
Tremor can be divided into several types, and these types are classified depending on factors such as how the tremor occurs, when it occurs, or under what conditions it becomes apparent. Here are some of the types of tremor:
Resting Tremor: Resting tremor occurs when a person is at rest and decreases or disappears when you start moving. It is a type associated with neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease.
Postural tremor: Occurs in a certain position, for example with the hands outstretched in front.
Action tremor: Action tremors occur when performing a specific task. For example, tremors can occur when aiming an object at a target. This type of tremor can be more pronounced when the hands are shaking.
Essential Tremor: This is one of the most common types of tremor and is often associated with a family history. It is characterized by tremors in the hands. It usually increases when trying to hold something in the hand or perform delicate operations.
Orthostatic Tremor: This type of tremor involves trembling in the legs during standing or walking. It usually occurs when a person stands and walks.
Psychogenic Tremor: Psychogenic tremor is a type associated with psychological stress or emotional factors. It can be associated with mental health issues and may need psychiatric evaluation.
What Causes Tremor?
Tremor disease, also called tremor, usually occurs due to neurological causes. The causes and triggers of tremor can be complex, and each type of tremor may have a different cause or trigger factor. The main causes of tremor:
Essential Tremor: This is the most common type of tremor and is often associated with a family history. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic factors are thought to play a role.
Parkinson's Disease: Parkinson's disease can be a cause of tremor that occurs at rest. Dopamine deficiency is one of the main causes of this disease.
Medications: Some medications or side effects of medications can cause tremor. Especially long-term use of medication or discontinuation of medication can cause tremor.
Alcohol Withdrawal: When alcohol is stopped as a result of chronic alcohol use, tremors may occur. This is called "alcohol withdrawal tremor".
Thyroid Problems: Overactive or underactive thyroid gland can cause tremor.
Neurological Disorders: MS (Multiple Sclerosis), ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), and other neurological diseases can cause tremor.
Psychogenic Causes: Psychological stress or anxiety can cause tremors in some people. This type of tremor is called "psychogenic tremor".
Old Age: The risk of tremor may increase with age. Some types of tremor, such as essential tremor, may become more common with age.
Toxic causes: Exposure to certain toxins, especially heavy metals, can contribute to tremors.
What are the symptoms of tremor?
The symptoms of tremor can vary from person to person and depending on the type of tremor. However, in general, common symptoms of tremor can be the following:
Rhythmic Tremor: The most clearly observed symptom is rhythmic and involuntary shaking or trembling of the muscles. The tremor is usually concentrated in a specific area, most commonly the hands, but can also affect other parts of the body.
Increased at Rest: Tremor may become more pronounced at rest, especially when the hands or legs are at rest. When you start moving, the tremor may decrease or disappear.
Increased During Action: Some types of tremor are more pronounced when performing a specific task (for example, grasping something or writing).
Tension and Stress-Related Symptoms: Stress, tension and excitement can increase tremor. Therefore, such symptoms may be more common in psychologically-induced tremors, called psychogenic tremor.
Coordination Problems: Tremor can make it difficult to do delicate work or perform certain tasks. For example, buttoning buttons or using cutlery.
Muscle Weakness: Trembling can cause muscles to contract continuously, which can lead to muscle weakness.
Fatigue: The constant work of the muscles due to tremors can cause a person to get tired faster.
Other Symptoms: Tremor can sometimes occur in combination with other neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include balance problems, difficulty walking, muscle stiffness and speech disorders.
How is tremor diagnosed?
Diagnosis of tremor disease begins with taking a detailed history including the patient's symptoms and medical history. The doctor evaluates the type and severity of tremor by performing a physical and neurological examination. Tests such as imaging tests, laboratory studies and electromyography can help determine the cause of the tremor.
The diagnosis is finalized by examining the type of tremor and the underlying cause. The cause may vary depending on the type of tremor and the person's specific health condition. Following the diagnosis, an appropriate treatment plan is determined and the patient's condition is managed. Therefore, it is important that people who suffer from tremor are evaluated by a health professional.
How is tremor treated?
The treatment of tremor may vary depending on the type, severity and underlying causes. In some cases, tremor may not be completely cured, but there are several treatment options available to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some of the treatment methods used in the management of tremor:
Medication: Doctors may prescribe certain medications to reduce or control the severity of tremor.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: Physiotherapists recommend exercises and therapies that can help reduce or manage tremor symptoms. Physical therapy is important to increase muscle strength, improve balance and facilitate activities of daily living.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): For some types of tremor that are related to neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, deep brain stimulation can be surgically applied. This method involves placing electrodes in specific areas of the brain and can control tremor.
Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox): In some cases, botulinum toxin injections can be used to treat certain types of tremor, such as dystonic tremor. These injections can reduce excessive contraction of muscles.
Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes such as reducing triggers such as alcohol and caffeine, avoiding stress and getting enough sleep can alleviate tremor symptoms.
Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy may be recommended for tremors based on psychological factors, such as psychogenic tremor. Addressing emotional issues can improve this type of tremor.