Essential Tremor

I have been told that I have essential tremor.  My symptoms are that I cann't write like I used to be able to.  I cann't form the characters like the clear and distinct handwriting that I used to have.  My hand trembles.  Some days are better than others.  But it is embarrasing, as when I have to write my to sign in at some meeting or take notes at a meeting I cannot write legibally.  Is this just a case of nerves?  Some days I don't feel that I am nervous or under stress and it still happens.  Would tranquilizers help?  What kind?

[HFHS MD-JM]

Heidi,

     Essential tremor is a common neurological problem.  It is a tremor that is not associated with other physical findings such as masked facies or shuffling gait in Parkinsons disease.  Anxiety about having a tremor can sometimes make it worse.  The treatment is with medication called Inderal which is a beta-blocking agent and is often used for cardiac related disease and social anxiety.  Your primary care doctor can prescribe this for you.  If you continue to have concerns or anxiety about this issue after initiating medication, then it may be helpful to see a psychiatrist for further evaluation and treatment.  Good luck.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords:  Essential tremor, anxiety

[chris]

My son has a tremor. His hands shake when he writes or picks up utensils. It is hereditary. His father and grandpa both have this problem. It seems to have gotten worse since high school. It's embarrassing for him also. He is 17 years old. He tried propranolol last year. It seemed to help him, however he discontinued the medication because it was something he just didn't want to continue taking. You could ask your Dr. about Propranolol.   Chris