Can Medication Cure Essential Tremor? Hand Tremors

Q: Can Medication Cure Essential Tremor? Hand Tremors

Hello, Mr. <br>Ke：<br>You asked, "Can medication cure hand tremors?" Primary tremors are those where the exact cause of the tremors cannot be identified; they may be due to a specific constitution or hereditary factors. <br>Typically, tremors are more pronounced when holding obje

The issue of hand tremors?

It seems that my dad also has tremors.
I had shaky hands when I was a child.
I would like to know if medication can help treat hand tremors.
Can primary tremors be treated with medication?

Ke Ke, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/27

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Mr.
Ke:
You asked, "Can medication cure hand tremors?" Primary tremors are those where the exact cause of the tremors cannot be identified; they may be due to a specific constitution or hereditary factors.
Typically, tremors are more pronounced when holding objects.
Physiological tremors can be managed in daily life to reduce the severity of symptoms.
These tremors do not occur regularly but may arise in certain situations such as stress, anxiety, or anger.
Some medications, like bronchodilators, as well as the consumption of coffee, tea, or cola, can also contribute to physiological tremors.
When treating hand tremors, it is essential to check for abnormalities in thyroid function or electrolytes.
If there is an improvement in tremor symptoms but noticeable side effects, it is advisable to reduce the dosage by half.
For propranolol, if used long-term, it is not recommended to stop suddenly; a tapering approach is necessary.
I suggest you consult a neurologist for further discussion and treatment.
Thank you for your question, and feel free to reach out with any related concerns!
Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2022/09/27

More Info

Essential tremor (ET) is a common neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking, primarily affecting the hands but can also involve the head, voice, and other body parts. It is often mistaken for Parkinson's disease, but ET is distinct in its presentation and underlying mechanisms. The tremors in ET typically occur during voluntary movements, such as writing or holding objects, and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

Regarding your question about whether medication can cure essential tremor, it is important to clarify that while there are effective treatments available, there is currently no cure for ET. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.

Several medications are commonly prescribed for essential tremor. The most frequently used include:
1. Propranolol: This is a beta-blocker that has been shown to reduce tremors in many patients. It is often the first-line treatment for ET and can be effective in controlling the severity of the tremors.

2. Primidone: An anticonvulsant medication, primidone is also effective in reducing tremors. Some patients may respond better to primidone than to propranolol, and it can be used alone or in combination with other medications.

3. Gabapentin: This medication is primarily used for nerve pain but has shown some effectiveness in treating tremors in certain patients.

4. Topiramate: Another anticonvulsant that has been used off-label for essential tremor, though it is less commonly prescribed than propranolol or primidone.

5. Botulinum toxin injections: In some cases, especially when tremors affect specific areas like the head or voice, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can be considered.

6. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): For patients who do not respond to medication or have severe tremors that significantly impair their daily life, surgical options like DBS may be considered. This involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to specific brain areas involved in movement control.

It's essential to consult with a neurologist or a movement disorder specialist to determine the best treatment plan tailored to individual needs. They can evaluate the severity of the tremors, the impact on daily life, and any other health conditions that may influence treatment options.

In summary, while essential tremor cannot be cured, various medications and treatments can effectively manage symptoms. If your father or you are experiencing hand tremors, it is advisable to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options. Early intervention can often lead to better management of symptoms and improved quality of life.

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