Essential Tremor

Treatment

Patients with essential tremor are evaluated and treated through Mayo Clinic's Movement Disorders Programs, staffed by specialists from Mayo Clinic's Neurology and Neurosurgery departments.

Essential tremor has no single treatment. Lifestyle changes such as getting enough rest, limiting stressful situations and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine may help ease tremors.

Physical or occupational therapy may also help patients perform affected tasks.

Patients facing difficulties with the social and psychological aspects of living with essential tremor may benefit from working with a counselor or joining a support group.

Medication

Beta-blockers, normally used to treat high blood pressure, can help relieve tremors in some people. Beta-blockers, however, can have several side effects and for patients with asthma, diabetes or certain heart problems, they may not be appropriate.

Antiseizure medications are another alternative, as are some tranquilizers. These medications, however, can also have unwanted side effects.

Botulinum toxin injections can be helpful in treating some tremors, especially of the head and voice. When used to treat hand tremors, however, they can cause weakness in the fingers. Read more about botulinum toxin injections.

Surgery

For patients who have severe tremors and who do not respond to medications, the surgical procedures thalamotomy or deep brain stimulation may be considered.

Also see movement disorders for additional information on treatments.