Common tremor patterns
Essential tremor is action-related and often familial; Parkinsonian tremor is classically at rest with slowness and stiffness; cerebellar or dystonic tremor disorders and medication or thyroid effects also cause shaking. Characterization by timing, frequency and associated features guides next steps.
- Action tremor — worse when writing, drinking
- Rest tremor — at rest, often hand
- Family history in many essential tremor cases
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What evaluation includes
History of activation, family, medication review, and neurological exam focusing on rest vs action vs postural components. Labs and imaging are selective, and a diary of triggers and severity helps track change over time.