Persistent Tremor is a medical term used to describe an uncontrollable shaking, often associated with neurological or neurodegenerative disorders. The word is spelled as /pərˈsɪstənt ˈtrɛmər/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which means that the first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by a stressed ‘sist’ sound. The second word 'tremor' is pronounced with the stressed first syllable and a neutral ‘r’ sound. Proper treatment of persistent tremor requires a comprehensive evaluation by a medical professional, followed by medication or therapy.
A persistent tremor refers to a continuous shaking or rhythmic movement of a body part that occurs over a prolonged period of time. It is characterized by involuntary and repetitive contractions of muscles, leading to uncontrollable trembling or shaking. This phenomenon can affect various body parts, including the hands, arms, legs, head, and voice, among others.
The persistence of the tremor is a key element of its definition, as it implies that the shaking or trembling continues uninterrupted for an extended duration, often lasting weeks, months, or even years. Unlike occasional or episodic tremors that may be triggered by specific circumstances or temporary conditions, a persistent tremor persists despite changes in posture or physical activity.
Persistent tremors can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can significantly disrupt a person's daily life and functioning. They may interfere with tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as writing, using utensils, or buttoning a shirt. Moreover, persistent tremors can also cause emotional and psychological distress, affecting one's self-esteem and overall quality of life.
It is essential to identify the underlying cause of a persistent tremor to determine an appropriate treatment plan. Potential causes include essential tremor, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, medication side effects, and neurological disorders. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis, monitoring, and implementing effective management strategies that may include medication, physical therapy, or surgical interventions.
A t. which is constant, whether the subject is at rest or moving.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "persistent" comes from the Latin word "persistere", which is a combination of "per", meaning "through", and "sistere", meaning "to stand or stay". Therefore, "persistent" means "to continue firmly or stubbornly".
The term "tremor" originated from the Latin word "tremere", which means "to tremble or shake". It was further derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "trem", which also means "to shake or tremble".
When these two words are combined to form "persistent tremor", it refers to a consistent or continuous shaking or trembling motion. This term is often used in medical contexts to describe a condition characterized by chronic or long-standing tremors.