Essential tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking movements, most commonly affecting the hands. The word "essential" is spelled with three syllables, /ɪˈsɛnʃəl/, and refers to the fact that the tremors are not caused by any known underlying disease or injury. "Tremor" is spelled with two syllables, /ˈtrɛmər/, and refers to the shaking movements themselves. Essential tremor is often abbreviated as ET and is estimated to affect millions of people worldwide, but often goes undiagnosed due to its subtle symptoms.
Essential tremor is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by rhythmic, involuntary shaking or tremors in various parts of the body, most commonly in the hands. It is considered an "essential" tremor because it is not associated with any other underlying disease or known cause. The tremors are typically bilateral, meaning they occur on both sides of the body, and may worsen with certain actions or postures, such as lifting or holding objects.
This condition primarily affects the voluntary muscles responsible for movement, and the tremors may range from mild to severe, and become more pronounced during emotional stress or physical exertion. Although essential tremor can occur at any age, it most commonly begins in middle age and progresses slowly over time.
The exact cause of essential tremor is still not fully understood, but it is believed to have a genetic component, as it often runs in families. It is thought to involve abnormalities in certain regions of the brain, particularly the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordinating movement.
While essential tremor is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect a person's quality of life and daily activities, such as eating, writing, or performing fine motor tasks. Treatment options for essential tremor include medications, such as beta-blockers and anticonvulsants, which can help reduce the severity of tremors. In some cases, surgical interventions, such as deep brain stimulation, may be considered to manage symptoms.
The term "essential tremor" is derived from the Latin word "essentia", meaning "essence" or "being". In this context, "essential" does not mean "necessary" but rather refers to a "pure" or "intrinsic" form of tremor, one without any underlying cause that can be identified. The word "tremor" originates from the Latin word "tremere", which means "to shake" or "tremble". Therefore, "essential tremor" describes a type of involuntary shaking or trembling that is fundamental or intrinsic in nature and not caused by any other identifiable condition.