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Hand Tremor (Shaking Hands) Disease

Hand Tremor (Shaking Hands) Disease Treatment In Delhi, India

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Overview

At Max Hospitals, we are committed to delivering world-class care for hand tremor diseases, equipped with the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies. Our expert team, comprising leading neurologists in Delhi, specialises in a wide range of hand tremor disorders, including essential tremors and Parkinson's disease-related tremors. We leverage a blend of advanced technology, evidence-based medicine, and compassionate support, ensuring personalised and effective treatments for every patient.

What is Hand Tremor?

Hand tremor, commonly known as hand shaking disease, is an involuntary, rhythmic shaking or trembling of the hands that can occur in various conditions, ranging from benign to more serious neurological disorders.

Types of Hand Tremor

Understanding tremors is essential for identifying potential health issues and seeking timely medical help. Getting access to some of the best neurologists in India ensures a comprehensive treatment approach to these types of tremors:

Resting Tremors

These tremors occur when the hands are at rest or not moving. They can emerge suddenly, leading to ongoing muscle spasms in the hands.

Action Tremors

These are trembling movements, often related to muscle exhaustion during activities like writing or using utensils. However, performing the same task repeatedly does not usually cause an action tremor.

Intention Tremors

These tremors appear specifically during an action and often intensify as the action progresses. Their severity can vary, and they mainly impact tasks that require steady hands and precise movements.

Symptoms of Hand Tremors

Symptoms of hand shaking disease can vary depending on the underlying cause, but generally include:

  • Visible shaking: The most noticeable symptom is the involuntary shaking or trembling of the hands.
  • Difficulty with fine motor skills: People may experience difficulty with tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as writing, buttoning clothes, or using utensils.
  • Shaking that worsens with stress: Emotional stress or physical exhaustion can exacerbate the tremors.
  • Changes in handwriting: Handwriting may become shaky, uneven, or smaller due to the tremors.

Causes of Hand Tremor Disease

The causes of hand shaking can be diverse, encompassing a range of medical conditions and factors:

  • Essential tremor: This is a common cause of hand tremors, often genetic, and usually worsens gradually over time.
  • Multiple sclerosis: This autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system can lead to tremors.
  • Stroke or brain injury: Damage to certain parts of the brain due to stroke or injury can result in tremors.
  • Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid gland can lead to tremors, among other symptoms.
  • Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can temporarily exacerbate or cause tremors.
  • Fatigue: Physical exhaustion might trigger or worsen tremors.
  • Caffeine and medications: Excessive caffeine intake and certain medications can induce or aggravate tremors.
  • Alcohol withdrawal: Tremors are a common symptom in individuals withdrawing from alcohol.
  • Ageing: Age-related changes in the brain and nervous system can sometimes lead to tremors in the elderly.

Diagnosis of Hand Tremors

Tremors aren’t always serious, but they may sometimes indicate a serious disorder.

Medical History

The doctor will review the patient's medical history, including the onset, duration, and progression of the tremors. Family history is also important to identify genetic conditions like essential tremor.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination helps assess the tremor's characteristics, such as whether it occurs at rest or during movement, its frequency, and amplitude. The examination may also evaluate muscle tone, coordination, and other neurological functions.

Neurological Examination

This focuses on nerve function and might include tests of reflexes, muscle strength, muscle tone, sense of touch and sight, coordination, and balance.

Laboratory Tests

Blood and urine tests can help rule out thyroid disease, metabolic issues, or the presence of toxins that could be causing the tremors.

Imaging Tests

Brain imaging tests, like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans can identify structural abnormalities or diseases (such as strokes or brain tumours) that might be causing tremors.

Hand Tremor Disease Treatment

Treatment for hand tremors is tailored to the underlying cause and severity of the symptoms. Common approaches include:

Medications

  • Beta-blockers: Often used for essential tremors, beta-blockers like propranolol can help reduce tremors.
  • Anticonvulsants: Drugs such as primidone may be effective in treating essential tremors.
  • Parkinson's disease medications: If tremors are due to Parkinson's disease, specific medications like levodopa may be prescribed.
  • Benzodiazepines: Medications like clonazepam can be used for tremors caused by anxiety.

Lifestyle Changes And Therapies

  • Physical therapy: Exercises can improve muscle strength, control, and coordination.
  • Occupational therapy: Strategies to adapt daily activities can help manage the impact of tremors.
  • Stress management: Since stress can exacerbate tremors, techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga may be beneficial.
  • Avoiding caffeine and alcohol: Reducing the intake of substances that can worsen tremors.

Surgical Options (For Severe Cases)

  • Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Involves implanting an electrode in the brain to regulate abnormal impulses.
  • Focused ultrasound thalamotomy: A non-invasive method using focused ultrasound waves to target brain areas responsible for tremors.

Botox Injections

For specific types of tremors, botulinum toxin injections can help reduce muscle contractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hand Tremor Disease

1. What is the main cause of hand tremors?

Hand tremors can be caused by various conditions, including essential tremors, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or even stress and caffeine intake. The specific cause depends on the type and characteristics of the tremor.

2. Can hand tremors be a sign of something serious?

While hand tremors can be benign, they can also indicate neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis. It's important to get a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

3. Are hand tremors curable?

The curability of hand tremors depends on their cause. Some tremors caused by temporary factors (like stress or medication) can be resolved, while others, such as those due to chronic neurological conditions, might be managed but not cured.

4. How can I reduce my hand tremors?

Management strategies include medications, lifestyle changes (like stress reduction and avoiding caffeine), physical therapy or occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgical options like deep brain stimulation.

5. Do hand tremors always worsen over time?

The progression of hand tremors varies; some may worsen, while others remain stable. Essential tremors, for instance, often worsen slowly over time.

6. Is there a specific diet to help with hand tremors?

While there's no specific diet for hand tremors, a balanced diet can improve overall health. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine may help reduce tremor severity.

7. Can exercise help in reducing hand tremors?

Exercise can improve overall muscle strength and coordination, which may help in reducing the impact of tremors. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for tailored exercise advice.

8. Are hand tremors genetic?

In some cases, like essential tremors, there is a genetic component, and they can run in families.

9. Can anxiety cause hand tremors?

Yes, anxiety and stress can cause or worsen hand tremors.

10.At what age do hand tremors typically start?

Hand tremors can start at any age but are more common in older adults. Essential tremors, for instance, often begin in middle age or later.

Review

Reviewed By Dr. Mukesh Kumar - Director and Head (Parkinson's Disease Unit), Neurosciences, Neurology on 12 Nov 2024.


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Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.

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