Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: Do I have it?

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Parkinson


I am a 21 year old male. Within the last couple of months I have noticed a
tightening of the underside of my forearms. It almost feels
like my forearms are completely exhausted after activity such as throwing
the football around with my roommate. My hands slightly tremble when I
outstretch my fingers. My hands tremble slightly while eating. The trembles
are more noticeable after physical activity. I am righthanded. The
tightening seems worse in my right forearm. I used to lift weights off and
on for the past 5 years. I havn't done any weight lifting for the past
few months due to a lack of time. I have remained active by playing
football and basketball. I do not have a drooling or balance problem.
My dads 67 year old brother's hands tremble slightly when doing
something like stuffing an envelope.I am concerned.Do I have the symptoms?
If so,what are my chances of leading a normal life? The underside of
my forearms have tightened up some while typing this. However, I am not the
best typist. If it doesn't seem like Parkinson's, what else could it be?
Please help me out. Thank you.
=

I think it is highly unlikely that you have Parkinson’s, this would be extremely young to develop the disease and a more benign diagnosis is much more likely.
The most likely explanation is that you have a mild case of benign essential tremor, which runs in some families, I notice you seem to have a relative with this similar problem which is significant.
There are several symptomatic treatments available and if you have the diagnosis concerned there are lots of options . One striking fact about this condition is that the tremor is rapidly relieved after drinking alcohol in many cases, I am not suggesting that you use this a therapy, but if you have ever noticed this it clinches the diagnosis. Another possibility which should be reviewed is the possibility of an overactive thyroid which also causes tremors , I would suggest that you have a blood test to check this out.
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