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Essential tremor
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Condition

Essential tremor

Essential tremor is a common movement disorder characterized by involuntary, rhythmic shaking, primarily affecting the hands, which can interfere with daily activities but does not shorten lifespan.

Description

Essential tremor is a movement disorder that causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking (tremor), especially in the hands. It is distinguished from tremor that results from other disorders or known causes, such as Parkinson's disease or head trauma. Essential tremor usually occurs alone, without other neurological signs or symptoms. However, some experts think that essential tremor can include additional features, such as mild balance problems.

Essential tremor usually occurs with movements and can occur during many different types of activities, such as eating, drinking, or writing. Essential tremor can also occur when the muscles are opposing gravity, such as when the hands are extended. It is usually not evident at rest.

In addition to the hands and arms, muscles of the trunk, face, head, and neck may also exhibit tremor in this disorder; the legs and feet are less often involved. Head tremor may appear as a "yes-yes" or "no-no" movement while the affected individual is seated or standing. In some people with essential tremor, the tremor may affect the voice (vocal tremor).

Essential tremor does not shorten the lifespan. However, it may interfere with fine motor skills such as using eating utensils, writing

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential tremor often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component. It is considered an autosomal dominant condition, meaning if one parent has essential tremor, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the gene and developing the condition. However, not everyone who inherits the gene will develop symptoms, or the symptoms may be very mild.
Diagnosis typically involves a neurological exam to assess the tremor's characteristics, such as when it occurs (during movement vs. at rest) and which body parts are affected. Doctors may also rule out other conditions by reviewing medical history, performing blood tests, or, less commonly, using imaging scans. Essential tremor is often distinguished from Parkinson's by its occurrence primarily during voluntary movement, whereas Parkinson's tremor is more prominent at rest.
Treatment options range from lifestyle adjustments to medications and, in severe cases, surgery. Medications like beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) or anti-seizure drugs (e.g., primidone) are commonly prescribed. For individuals whose tremor significantly impacts daily life and doesn't respond to medication, deep brain stimulation (DBS) or focused ultrasound thalamotomy may be considered.
Yes, some strategies can help. Avoiding caffeine, stress, and extreme temperatures, which can worsen tremors, is often recommended. Using weighted utensils, wearing wrist weights, or holding objects with both hands can provide stability. Occupational therapy can also teach adaptive techniques and provide tools to make daily tasks easier.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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