Tremors are uncontrollable shaking or twitching movements and can be experienced in the hands, arms, legs, feet, and even the voice. They are movement disorders that are very common. Tremors can be associated with the presence of many illnesses; however, the very first movement disorder that comes to the mind of most people is Parkinson’s disease. The way a person shakes, or the pattern of their tremors, can assist a physician in coming up with a better diagnosis.

Resting tremor, action tremor, and intention tremor. These three types of tremors can assist in the identification of some symptoms and the development of a better differential diagnosis.

What is a Tremor?

Tremors can be defined as involuntary, irregular movements in the rhythm that can be associated with some changes in the parts of the brain that are responsible for controlling movements of muscles. Tremors can be very bothersome if the movement is unilateral or bilateral and can easily interfere with the ability to perform simple and mundane tasks like writing, eating, and speaking.

Resting Tremor

Tremors are commonly experienced only if the affected part of the body is relaxed and is fully supported. Tremors tend to disappear or become very mild and of a lesser severity if the person is active. They tend to shake involuntarily in the hands and commonly start on one side of the body.

Symptoms

• While part of the body is relaxed and supported, it is shaking.
• The tremor is mild and is often not easily perceivable or might even completely disappear if the person is active.
• The tremor movement tends to spread to other parts of the body if it is experienced in one hand.

Common Causes

Parkinson’s disease is the most common disease that is associated with a resting tremor.

Action Tremor

Action tremors are only relevant when the muscles are in an active state. These tremors arise while engaging in activities such as writing, eating, and picking up objects. Action tremors are the most common type of tremor.

Symptoms

• Shaking during an action
• Difficulty writing
• Difficulty holding a cup or spoon
• Tremors worsen during stress or tiredness.

Common Causes

An action tremor is most commonly seen in essential tremor. The action tremor can also be a result of medication, an overactive thyroid, or an excessive amount of caffeine.

Intention Tremor

Intention tremors become apparent in the action of reaching for an object. An intention tremor is when the hand shakes specifically during the action of pressing a button or picking up a glass. Intention tremors also signify a problem in the cerebellum.

Symptoms

• Tremors intensify during the final stages of an action.
• Difficulty picking up small objects
• Poor coordination
• Unsteady hand movements

Common Causes

Intention tremors can be seen in a person with any of the following conditions:

• Stroke
• Multiple sclerosis
• Brain injury
• Cerebellar disorders
• Brain tumors

How Are Tremors Diagnosed?

Tremors are diagnosed through a discussion of the occurrence and symptoms of the tremors. An examination of your strength, coordination, and the balance of your movements may be performed by a neurologist.

Tests may include:

• Medical history
• Detailed neurological examination
• Observation of tremors during rest and action
• Blood tests
• MRI or CT to rule out brain disorders

Precise diagnosis and classification of tremors is essential as treatment is dependent on the cause.

Management of Tremors

Management depends on the cause of the tremors. Medications can control tremors for many individuals. Cortical and occupational therapies may improve a person’s coordination and make functions of daily living easier to perform. Other healthy habits such as avoiding caffeine, stress, or fatigue may control the symptoms.

When medications fail to control tremors, and they are of a more severe degree, other ultramodern treatment options such as MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) can be evaluated after a specialist review.

When Should You See a Doctor?

A neurologist should be seen for persistent tremors, worsening tremors, or tremors that impair daily activities. It is also medically important to evaluate the tremors if they are accompanied by rigidity, unsteadiness, or voice changes. Diagnosis of tremors should be as early as possible, as it may improve the outcome after treatment.

Conclusion

Resting tremors, action tremors, and intention tremors are different kinds of involuntary tremor and occur in different instances. They may also be associated with different neurologic disorders. Distinguishing these for physicians may facilitate a diagnosis, and therefore better-quality treatment. Moreover, early diagnosis may improve control of the symptoms and the person’s independence.

Our skilled neurologists at Royal Care Neurosciences offer a thorough evaluation and individualized treatment for movement disorders. Our specialized diagnostics and patient-centred care empower us to help those who suffer from tremors and improve their quality of life.

FAQs

1. What is the main Difference between Resting and Action Tremors?

Resting tremors occur when there is no muscle tension, whereas tremors of an action type occur during muscle tension when activity such as writing or eating is performed.

2. Is it true that all twitching causes Parkinson’s disease?

Not at all. Twitching can be caused by a wide range of issues. Some include, but are not limited to, tremors, cerebellar issues, thyroid issues, and medications. You may need a neurological evaluation to pinpoint the reason.

3. Are tremors treatable?

Definitely, treatments may involve medication, therapy, or even lifestyle adjustments. Depending on the patient, even more advanced techniques like MRgFUS may be utilized.