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Tremors
Uncontrollable shaking and trembling (tremors) can make you feel self-conscious about the most basic movements. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health movement disorder specialists help you regain control. We pinpoint the source of your symptoms and tailor therapies to reduce their impact on your daily life.
Comprehensive tremor care: Why choose us?
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is home to neurologists with advanced fellowship training who specialize in movement disorders like tremors. We regularly see patients with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. You can count on us to listen to your concerns, provide an accurate diagnosis and tailor care to your needs. Find a tremor specialist.
Symptoms of tremors
Tremors often affect the hands. You may also experience tremors in your head, vocal cords, arms, legs or torso.
Symptoms may appear or worsen when you are:
- Carrying out specific motions, like pressing a button
- Experiencing strong emotions
- Holding your limbs in a particular way
- Stressed
- Tired
What causes tremors?
Tremors can have many potential causes. In addition to certain neurological disorders, they may also be due to:
- Caffeine in high quantities
- Diabetes
- Exposure to toxins, such as heavy metals
- Liver or kidney failure
- Side effects of medications for asthma, cancer and psychiatric conditions
- Thyroid disorders, like overactive thyroid
Tremors and Parkinson’s disease
Hand tremors and other uncontrolled shaking can be one of the first signs of Parkinson’s disease. But experiencing tremors doesn’t always mean you have this condition. Our health system is among a few in the region offering sophisticated tests like dopamine transport scans. This imaging study enables us to confirm or rule out Parkinson’s disease with a higher degree of accuracy.
Tremor evaluation and diagnosis
We listen as you explain how symptoms impact your day-to-day activities. It’s part of a detailed discussion that also covers treatment goals and how you can achieve them. We discuss your medical history, including any medications you are taking, and perform a neurological exam.
Tremor treatments
We develop a personalized plan based on the tremor type and severity. Our specialists also consider your personal preferences and goals. We explain our recommendations and answer your questions so you know what to expect.
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Medications slow some tremor types. Many drugs intended for other medical issues, like seizures and heart disease, are effective in quieting tremors. For hand tremors and movement in other areas due to Parkinson’s, we prescribe specific drugs. If symptoms are from side effects of other medications, we may recommend alternatives.
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Neurorehabilitation services help you adapt to changes in your abilities while optimizing your independence. Physical, occupational and speech therapists provide services and recommendations that may include:
- Exercises to enhance balance, strength and coordination
- Techniques that improve the strength and volume of your voice
- Technologies like voice-activated devices that may simplify everyday tasks
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You may benefit from a procedure if medication and therapies aren’t successful. We offer advanced options, such as:
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Changes to your daily habits may lessen tremor’s impact on your life. Recommendations may include:
- Avoiding alcohol
- Getting restful sleep
- Limiting caffeine consumption
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Using relaxation techniques and other methods to manage stress
Find a specialist
Our specialists care for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find a tremor specialist near you.