Essential Tremor

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists) and other specialties diagnose and treat essential tremor.

Essential tremor occasionally may be difficult to diagnose because it has symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders. Doctors trained in movement disorders have experience diagnosing essential tremor.

To diagnose essential tremor, your doctor will review your symptoms, your medical history (including medications) and your family medical history. Your doctor will conduct a physical and neurological examination. In the neurological examination, your doctor will check your nerve function, movement (motor) and sensory skills. Your doctor may order tests to rule out other conditions.

Tests may include:

• Blood tests. Your doctor may order blood tests to check for thyroid function or other causes of tremor.
• Computerized tomography (CT scan). A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed, three-dimensional view of your brain.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce a detailed view of your brain and nervous system. Your doctor may order an MRI to rule out other conditions.

Brain imaging tests often are unnecessary to diagnose essential tremor, but in certain cases your doctor may order them.

Read more about computerized tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging at MayoClinic.com.