Among neurological disorders, essential tremor and Parkinson's disease are common movement disorders that affect the quality of daily life.
However,Although both diseases can cause symptoms such as hand tremors, head shaking, etc., there are many differences between them
Definition of essential tremor & Parkinson's is the same as **
Essential tremor, also known as essential tremor, is a benign tremor that is mainly manifested as postural tremor, usually starting in the upper limbs, but may also affect the head, lower limbs, voice, etc.
The exact number is still unclear, but most studies believe that it is related to genetics, environmental factors, etc.
Parkinson's diseaseIt is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration and death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the midbrain, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine content, which in turn causes a series of symptoms.
It is mainly related to genetics, age, environmental factors, etc.
Symptomatic manifestations of essential tremor & parkinsonism
Essential tremor
Postural tremor
The main manifestations of essential tremor are worsened during tension and fatigue and lessen at rest.
Action tremor
Tremors may be more pronounced when performing certain movements, such as holding objects or writing.
The voice trembled
Some people may have their voice affected, with voice instability or tremors.
Head tremors
In addition to the hands, the head can also be the main site of tremor, which is manifested by a slight shaking of the head.
No other neurological symptoms
Essential tremor is usually not accompanied by other significant neurological symptoms.
Parkinson's disease
Resting tremor
The first symptom, usually starting distal to one upper extremity, is characterized by regular finger flexion and thumb-to-palm movements, which are evident at rest and lessen with activity.
Slowness of movement
Movements become slow, such as walking, turning, dressing, and other daily activities.
Muscle rigidity
Muscles become stiff, causing difficulty in moving, such as feeling resistance when bending or straightening the limbs.
Postural balance disorders
Patients may have unsteadiness in walking and fall easily.
Non-motor symptoms
Including constipation, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, etc.
Essential tremor & Parkinson's method
Essential tremor
*Mainly for symptoms, such as the use of drugs under the guidance of a doctor**, and psychological**. Most patients are able to manage their symptoms effectively with lifestyle modifications and medications**.
Parkinson's disease
*It is more complex, including drugs**, surgery**, and other means.
Medications** are mainly used to improve the patient's motor and non-motor symptoms.
Surgery** is mainly for patients who do not respond to drugs or who have severe symptoms.
It aims to help patients improve their quality of life and improve their exercise ability.
Although both essential tremor and Parkinson's disease can cause symptoms such as hand tremors and head shaking, there are significant differences in their definitions, symptom presentations, and methods. Therefore, when similar symptoms occur, patients should seek medical attention in time for detailed examination and diagnosis in order to formulate a targeted plan.