Quick Answer
Rest tremor with slowness and stiffness suggests Parkinson's, but not every tremor is Parkinson's —— timing matters.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • NMC 8029 • Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
Direct answer: Early Parkinson's often shows rest tremor (hand shaking at rest), bradykinesia (slowness in buttoning or walking), rigidity and reduced arm swing, sometimes with smaller handwriting or soft speech. Non-motor clues —— loss of smell, vivid dream enactment, constipation, mood change —— may precede motor signs. Neurological evaluation at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center distinguishes Parkinsonian from essential and medication-related tremor.
Key points: - Essential tremor is action-related and often familial; Parkinsonian tremor is classically at rest with slowness and stiffness. - Medication (valproate, lithium, some antipsychotics), thyroid excess, caffeine and cerebellar disorders also cause tremor. - Response to therapy supports but does not alone prove Parkinson's; imaging mainly excludes mimics.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav — consultant neurologist & headache specialist at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center provides evidence-based evaluation for parkinson's disease.
Detailed explanation: Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029) takes detailed timing history (rest vs action vs postural), family and medication review, and performs gait and motor examination plus non-motor screening. Education covers exercise, fall safety and follow-up rather than promise of cure. Early assessment helps plan work, driving and family support.
Bring medication list, family history and videos of tremor to Durbar Marg, Opposite of Yak & Yeti Hotel.
Frequently asked questions
Answers reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
No; essential tremor and other conditions also cause tremor and need evaluation.
No; some people present with slowness or stiffness without tremor. Specialist evaluation distinguishes Parkinson's from other causes.
No. Essential tremor is more common and occurs on action. Parkinsonian tremor is classically at rest with slowness and stiffness. Only examination distinguishes.
Yes, stress, fatigue, and caffeine often amplify tremor amplitude but do not cause the underlying disorder.
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References & Review
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
- International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3).
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine — Neurology sections.
- American Academy of Neurology guidelines for selected conditions (where applicable).
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.