Familial Tremor, also known as essential tremor, is a neurological disorder that runs in families. The spelling of the word "familial" is /fəˈmɪliəl/ (fuh-mil-ee-uhl) and refers to the hereditary nature of the condition. The word "tremor," /ˈtrɛmər/ (trem-er), describes the shaking or involuntary movement that characterizes the disorder. Though it is not a life-threatening condition, Familial Tremor can significantly impact a person's daily life and may require treatment to manage symptoms.
Familial Tremor, also known as essential tremor, is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary rhythmic shaking or trembling of one or more parts of the body, typically the hands, arms, head, or voice. It is called familial tremor because the condition tends to run in families, with a genetic component believed to influence its development.
The tremors associated with familial tremor are usually bilateral and symmetrical, meaning they affect both sides of the body equally. They are generally exacerbated by certain activities like holding objects or performing precision tasks, and can vary in intensity and frequency depending on the individual. However, most individuals with familial tremor experience a persistent tremor that worsens over time.
This condition is considered a benign disorder, as it is not life-threatening or associated with any major systemic illness. However, familial tremor can greatly impact an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to perform daily tasks or participate in activities requiring fine motor skills. Tremors may be worsened by stress, fatigue, caffeine, or certain medications.
While there is no cure for familial tremor, various treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms. These may include medications such as beta-blockers or anticonvulsants, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or deep brain stimulation. The goal of treatment is to reduce the severity and frequency of the tremors, improving the individual's ability to function and maintain independence.
The term "familial tremor" is formed by combining the words "familial" and "tremor".
1. Familial: The word "familial" refers to something related to a family or inherited within a family. It is derived from the Latin word "familia", meaning "family", which itself traces back to the Latin word "famulus", meaning "servant" or "household servant". The term became used in English around the 17th century.
2. Tremor: The term "tremor" refers to an involuntary shaking or trembling movement. It originated from the Latin word "tremor", which means "shaking" or "trembling". It has been used in English since the late 14th century.