Description
A fine shaking of the extremities, more likely to involve the hands, that becomes worse with activity such as drinking a glass of water. By definition there is not an underlying neurologic disease process causing the symptoms. It is common, especially in older people.
Symptoms
Fine tremor of the hands, feet or head. The symptoms are worse with activity and become accentuated with stress. The tremor decreases after drinking an alcoholic beverage.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam can usually establish the diagnosis. Sometimes, additional testing is done if an underlying disease is suspected.
Tests:
CT Scan, Thyroid function tests
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam can usually establish the diagnosis. Sometimes, additional testing is done if an underlying disease is suspected.
Tests:
CT Scan, Thyroid function tests
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice
Treatment
Many people do not require treatment. Drugs that can be prescribed include: beta blockers (propranolol/Inderal), anti-seizure medications (primidone/Mysoline, gabapentin/Neurontin, topiramate/Topamax), benzodiazepines (diazepam/Valium).