Essential Tremor

Home » Essential Tremor » Tremor Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of essential tremor is based on the observation of symptoms, a thorough medical history, physical examination, and neurological examination. Performance tests, such as asking the patient to write, draw, hold an object, or drink from a glass, help the physician evaluate the tremor.

Differential Diagnosis

Results from blood and urine tests can help the physician rule out other causes such as the following:

• Heavy metal poisoning (usually caused by exposure to lead or mercury)
• Parkinson's disease
• Side effect of medication (e.g., asthma drugs, antidepressants)
• Thyroid disease

Essential tremor is not related to Parkinson's disease. Tremor caused by Parkinson's is more pronounced during rest and usually does not affect the head or voice.

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