Parkinson’s disease is well-known for causing tremors that millions of people around the world experience. Knowing about this shaking is important for anyone with Parkinson’s, as well as their families and the people who take care of them.
In this article, we’re going to look at five important facts to know about the tremor that comes with Parkinson’s. Understanding these facts will help you better understand this main symptom of the condition.
Tremor is the most common symptom associated with Parkinson’s disease. It often serves as the initial clue that prompts individuals to seek medical attention.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily impairs motor functions of the body. Besides tremor, other typical symptoms of this disease include rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability. These symptoms develop when there is a significant loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that controls the movement functions of the brain.
The tremor itself typically starts in the hands. However, it can also affect the chin, lips, and legs. It can get worse when an individual is stressed or fatigued. Despite its challenges, Parkinson’s tremor has a unique set of characteristics that differentiate it from other types of tremor. With these points in mind, here are the 5 key facts about Parkinson’s tremor.
Fact 1: Parkinson’s tremor is typically a resting tremor
Unlike tremors associated with actions, such as those seen in essential tremor, Parkinson’s tremor is typically a resting tremor. This means it usually occurs when the muscle is at rest and not engaged in an activity. For example:
- A person with Parkinson’s may notice a tremor in their hand when it lies in their lap but see it subside when they start to use it.
- The tremor often involves a characteristic “pill-rolling” motion, where the thumb and forefinger rub together in a circular movement.
Fact 2: Parkinson’s tremor begins on one side of the body
A distinguishing feature of Parkinson’s tremor is its unilateral onset. Here’s what typically happens:
- It often starts on one side of the body, usually affecting one hand or foot.
- Over time, as Parkinson’s progresses, the tremor may spread to both sides, but it generally remains more pronounced on the side where it started.
Fact 3: Parkinson’s tremor can vary in intensity
The severity and frequency of Parkinson’s tremor can vary for several reasons:
- Stress, anxiety, and fatigue can exacerbate the tremor, causing it to become more noticeable.
- The tremor may be less pronounced after waking up and increase as the day progresses.
- Medication can greatly reduce the tremor’s intensity, with many patients experiencing significant relief after starting treatment.
Fact 4: Parkinson’s tremor is often accompanied by other symptoms
Parkinson’s tremor doesn’t occur in isolation. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms that may include:
- Stiffness or rigidity of the limbs and trunk.
- Slowness of movement (bradykinesia) that can affect everyday tasks.
- Postural instability, which can lead to balance issues and falls.
Fact 5: Parkinson’s tremor is not the same for everyone
Parkinson’s disease manifests uniquely in each individual, and this includes the tremor:
- Some people may experience a mild tremor that hardly progresses, while others may have a more severe form.
- In a small number of cases, a person with Parkinson’s may not experience a tremor at all, which is known as tremor-dominant Parkinson’s.
- The tremor can also fluctuate, with some days being better or worse than others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding Parkinson’s tremor is crucial for those affected by the condition, as well as their families and caregivers. The tremor associated with Parkinson’s disease has distinct characteristics and behaviors that set it apart from other types of tremors. Recognizing these key aspects – from its manifestation as a resting tremor to its variable intensity and progression – can aid in better managing the condition and improving the quality of life. It’s also important to remember that while tremor is a significant symptom of Parkinson’s, it’s just one part of a broader picture that includes other motor and non-motor symptoms.