For those who do not know too much about essential tremor, it is understandable that it is not recognized as similar conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease. Both conditions have to do with bouts of shaking, but it is clear that Parkinson’s tends to be seen as the more serious of the two. However, it is crucial to note that essential tremor is not a condition to be taken lightly.
The common misconceptions about essential tremor
To get a deeper understanding of Parkinson tremor vs essential tremor, it would be a good idea to work out some of the common misconceptions. One misconception is that essential tremor is seen as benign or harmless when compared to Parkinson’s. Unfortunately, while sufferers of essential tremor would wish that to be true, it simply is not the case. It is a definite medical condition that often gets worse with age, which means things can get challenging for those over the age of fifty with the condition.
Another misconception is that essential tremor can somehow be avoided. Unfortunately, those who are at risk of developing the condition have no means of avoiding essential tremor. Even those who might not have the genetic mutation associated with essential tremor can still be afflicted.
One final misconception is that essential tremor is curable. While it is indeed treatable, there is no cure for essential tremor.
What differentiates essential tremor from Parkinson’s Disease
First and foremost, the tremor with essential tremor is an action tremor, while the tremor with Parkinson’s is at rest. A significant difference between the two conditions is where the symptoms take place. For Parkinson’s, they often occur on the hands, legs, as well as the chin. For essential tremor, they tend to occur with the hands as well, but mostly on the upper body. The head and the voice box may be affected.
There are also differences in the additional physical symptoms that can come from suffering either of the two conditions. When it comes to essential tremor, tremor is the main symptom, compared to Parkinson’s that has a laundry list of potential physical debilitations.
How essential tremor is treated
When it comes to the typical treatment of essential tremor, it varies depending on the person suffering from the condition. For example, medication is typically the first treatment for those who suffer from symptoms. If medication is not working, there are plenty of options, such as focused ultrasound treatment. There are also invasive surgical procedures to help those suffering from essential tremor.
While essential tremor might not have the same recognition as Parkinson’s, it is vital to understand that it can be a debilitating condition. There is no need to be embarrassed because you have essential tremor, instead, it would be a better idea to focus on getting it treated.
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