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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
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Subject: Re: Essential tremor questions Hi, I have been having troubles for over a year now and have had many of the symptoms of MS. All tests have been negative. The last most aggravating symptom has been a tremor which started in my head and neck, moved to my upper arms and during what I call my "rushes" of adrenaline affected my trunk, hands and legs as well. (these extra-strong rushes would last about 30 min to 1 1/2 hrs and leave me with extremely sore/crampy muscles afterward) The head, neck and upper arms were mild but constant. My neuro gave me Amantadine for fatigue and I was so pleased when it helped my tremors. (Since all tests were negative he said he would call my tremors Essential Tremors and assured me it was not Parkinsons Disease) For about the last 3 weeks I noticed a dramatic decrease in my tremors which seemed to peak in intensity and frequency and (almost suddenly) disappeared after having them for about 3-4 months. I began to cut back on my Amantadine and have now completely stopped. I have three questions: 1. Is it common for an essential tremor which had gotten so bad to suddenly stop?? 2. Why now after stopping the Amantadine do my neck muscles, arms and legs feel sore,achy and crampy (cramps come in waves) now that I have stopped the tremors and am off the Amantadine?? 3. I seem to get weak,sore and achy muscles after minimal exertion now and sometimes upon waking in the morning after a good night's rest. Are all of these problems with having an Essential tremor?? Thanks in advance for your time -
Thanks for the question. Essential tremor is a relatively common disorder. There is usually a positive family history (ie others in your family also have it). The tremor can begin at any age. The tremor is not usually present at rest. Alcohol often makes the tremor go away and is sometimes used as a diagnostic test. The two drugs most commonly used are beta blockes (propranolol) and mysoline. I'm not aware of the use of amantaidne to treat ET. It also seems strange to me that your tremor has stopped? This is not usually the case with ET. The role of amantadine in the treatment of several neurologic disorders is not well understood. It is used to treat fatigue and also it is used in Parkinsons Disease probably due to its effect on dopamine. Patients with ET usually do not have alot of problems with sore aching muscles. I'm really not sure what to make of your story but it does not fit well for ET and you may wish to seek a second opinion regardinbg your diagnosis. Good luck If you wish a referral to CCF call 216 444 5559. This information is provided for general medical education purposes. Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.
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