How is an essential tremor diagnosed?
-
An essential tremor is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease. Unlike Parkinson's disease, however, essential tremors usually are not accompanied with trouble walking. Essential tremors are distinct in that they cause your voice to tremble and your hands to shake when you are using them. Your doctor may ask you what medications you are taking and if drinking alcohol helps to relieve your tremor. You might also have a blood test to check for thyroid disease.
An essential tremor is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease. Unlike Parkinson's disease, however, essential tremors usually are not accompanied with trouble walking. Essential tremors are distinct in that they cause your voice to tremble and... More -
Dr. Steven Meyers of NorthShore University HealthSystem answered:Essential tremor is diagnosed based upon the history and examination. Your doctor may recommend blood tests to exclude medical conditions that might cause a tremor.Essential tremor is diagnosed based upon the history and examination. Your doctor may recommend blood tests to exclude medical conditions that might cause a tremor. More -
Dr. Angela Mark of NorthShore University HealthSystem answered:This is diagnosed by a neurologist who will look both look for features in the history and physical that are classic for ET but also exclude other features more suggestive of other processes such as Parkinson's disease or cerebellar tremor. The brain MRI looks normal in patient's with ET. Blood tests like renal and thyroid function tests can help rule out other causes of tremor. Caffeine, diet pills, amphetamines, cocaine and other sympathomimetics may also cause tremor. Some Anti-depressants are also known to cause tremor as well, therefore careful investigation of one's medications should also be included.This is diagnosed by a neurologist who will look both look for features in the history and physical that are classic for ET but also exclude other features more suggestive of other processes such as Parkinson's disease or cerebellar tremor. The... More
