Tremor

Tremor is an uncontrolled movement of part of the body, which often occurs in a regular or rhythmic pattern. Tremor is generally caused by some malfunction of the brain or nervous system which leads to the transmission of the signal to the part of the body, often the face or hands, to move in a way that does not provide any benefit to the body. Some forms of tremor are caused by genetic disorders, while others are symptoms of diseases of various kinds.

One of the more common types of tremor is the inherited condition known as essential tremor. This can strike at any age and is not often serious unless the patient is pursuing some occupation or craft that demands total control of the hands or other affected body part. The tremor has often been countered historically through alcohol use, which is effective but may lead to other problems. Beta-blocker drugs have become popular as more long-term and sustainable options. Essential tremor can also affect the voice and the legs and may be intensified during periods of emotional or physical stress. This can become severe and lead to considerable levels of stress for those experiencing the condition and those close to them.

A well-known cause of tremor is Parkinson's disease, which leads to involuntary movements in many parts of the body and is associated with difficulties in moving and in performing numerous daily tasks. The cause of this disease is not fully established and cannot be prevented from running its course, although modern drugs have proved reasonably effective in prolonging life and maintaining quality of life. An area of research investigating the ability of cannabinoids to reduce or eliminate tremor has proved controversial. The substances investigated are present in the drug cannabis, which is illegal in most countries and which is considered by many to be a “gateway” drug leading to experimentation with more destructive substances. The research is also controversial because of the limited amount of substantiation for claims of the use of the substance and the very high subjective regard that some people have of it.

There are, in addition, many other possible causes of tremor. These include neurodegenerative diseases which attack the brain, liver failure, multiple sclerosis, brain injury or stroke, and the effect (or withdrawal from) of alcohol, caffeine, or other substances which have a drug-like effect on the body. These latter causes are likely to have a temporary effect on the body and the former a more permanent one. The various factors may also act in combination and, in the case of drugs, the cause of the tremor may also be the means of remedying it, albeit only for a limited period of time. Repeated trauma such as being struck on the head can also lead to tremor in all parts of the body on an unpredictable basis. Boxers and others suffering these kinds of blows on a regular basis are particularly vulnerable.

A brain disorder such as cerebral palsy can lead to extensive involuntary movement or spasticity. These forms of movement may be so extreme as to prevent the patient being able to complete regular daily activities and may themselves lead to additional, physical stress-related symptoms. However, there is no automatic link between conditions such as this and mental retardation and, with palliative treatments such as muscle relaxant drugs, adult sufferers can enjoy good quality of life and productive careers.

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