What Is the Difference Between Parkinson’s and Essential Tremors?

Tremors are one of the most recognized symptoms associated with neurological conditions, but not all tremors are the same. A common question many people ask is: What is the difference between Parkinson’s and essential tremors? While both involve involuntary shaking, especially in the hands, they are distinct in their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Understanding Essential Tremors vs. Parkinson’s Disease
Essential Tremor (ET) is a neurological disorder that primarily causes rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands, but it can also affect the head, voice, and other parts of the body. ET is considered a movement disorder and tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and coordination. Tremors are a common symptom, but PD also includes muscle stiffness, slow movements (bradykinesia), and postural instability.

What Is the Difference Between Parkinson’s and Essential Tremors?
While they may appear similar, there are key differences:

• Timing of Tremors:
  • Essential Tremor: Shaking occurs during voluntary movement, such as eating or writing.
  • Parkinson’s Disease: Tremors typically happen at rest, and may decrease with purposeful movement.
• Location of Tremors:
  • ET: Usually affects both hands symmetrically, and may extend to the head or voice.
  • PD: Often begins on one side of the body, commonly in one hand, and may progress asymmetrically.
• Associated Symptoms:
  • ET: Rarely includes other symptoms beyond the tremor.
  • PD: Includes slow movement, rigid muscles, shuffling walk, and facial masking.
• Progression:
  • ET: Can progress slowly but doesn’t typically lead to serious disability.
  • PD: Is a degenerative disease that can lead to significant motor and non-motor complications over time.
• Response to Medication:
  • ET: Often responds to beta-blockers or anti-seizure medications.
  • PD: Treated with medications like Levodopa/Carbidopa, which increase dopamine in the brain.

Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Because tremors can look similar in the early stages, a thorough neurological evaluation is essential. Movement disorder specialists use clinical exams, medical history, and in some cases, brain imaging, to distinguish between the two conditions.
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Getting the right diagnosis means accessing the right care—and that’s where support organizations can make all the difference.


Support and Resources from PASWFL
For over twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has provided effective programs and services to improve quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower those touched by PD and related neurological diseases. Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for members with PD and their care partners.

There are no fees to become a member. You can join or learn more through their website at www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org
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