Does Essential Tremor Mean I Have Parkinson’s Disease? Key Differences You Need to Know

If you’ve noticed your hands shaking while holding a cup of coffee or signing your name, you may be wondering: Does essential tremor mean I have Parkinson’s disease? It’s a common and understandable fear. Tremors can feel alarming, especially when Parkinson’s disease (PD) is often associated with shaking.

Here’s the reassuring truth: essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease are not the same condition. While they both involve tremors, the causes, symptoms, and progression are different—and understanding those differences can ease anxiety and help you take the right next steps. Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Essential Tremor?
Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological condition that primarily causes shaking during movement. This is called an action tremor, meaning it happens when you’re doing something—like writing, eating, or holding an object.
Common signs of essential tremor:

• Tremor during activity (not at rest)
• Shaking in both hands
• Head or voice tremor
• Symptoms that may improve slightly with small amounts of alcohol
• Often a family history of tremor

Essential tremor is generally not life-threatening and does not typically cause the stiffness, slowness, or balance problems seen in Parkinson’s disease.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
​Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement due to the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.
Common early signs of Parkinson’s disease:

• Resting tremor (shaking when the hand is relaxed)
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity
• Reduced facial expression
• Softer voice
• Changes in posture or walking

Unlike essential tremor, Parkinson’s tremor often starts on one side of the body and may spread over time.

​Key Differences Between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s:

Feature	Essential Tremor	Parkinson's Disease
Tremor Type	Action tremor	Resting tremor
When It Occurs	During movement	When relaxed
Affects Both Sides?	Usually	Often starts on one side
Other Symptoms	Usually tremor only	Stiffness, slowness, balance issues
Progression	Slowly, may remain mild	Progressive neurological disorder

If you are unsure which type of tremor you’re experiencing, a neurologist—especially a movement disorder specialist—can perform an evaluation and provide clarity.

When Should You See a Doctor?
​You should seek medical evaluation if:

• The tremor is new or worsening
• You notice stiffness or slowness
• Your balance is affected
• Daily tasks are becoming difficult

Early diagnosis is important. Even if it’s not Parkinson’s, identifying essential tremor allows you to explore treatment options and lifestyle adjustments that improve quality of life.

Why Support Matters
​A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.
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Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

 Take the First Step Toward Living Well 
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter:
https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup-enews.html
👉 Click here to become a member — it’s free and confidential:
https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.