Is It Parkinson’s or Essential Tremor?

As we go on through life, a lot of incurable diseases and disorders emerge while we move on and try to adapt to change. Sometimes it feels as if there’s no escape from these dilemmas, and as if technology is the reason for these crises. Well, that’s not true because the human species doesn't stand aside and do nothing. On the contrary, we take a stand and use technology to help us find cures and results for every obstacle we face.

It won’t be easy, but it’s not impossible!

As time passes, we find ourselves facing a huge obstacle in illnesses. We have come across multiple disorders like Parkinson’s disease and essential tremors that have put us in quite a bubble. Conditions like these haven’t yet proven curable nor have they been thoroughly analyzed for causes. But how can we tell disorders like these apart?

First, let’s take a quick look at both of these conditions and what they are.

What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that leads to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement and coordination. This lifelong condition gradually worsens over time, mainly affecting people over 50. It is also called a “movement disorder,” knowing that it causes serious difficulties while moving. Parkinson’s disease is considered a lifelong and progressive condition, meaning the symptoms and side effects will get worse slowly over time.

Age is also considered a huge factor in Parkinson’s. It’s known that people from the ages of 50 and above are more likely to have this disorder. It’s also a known fact that people think that this condition is an old person’s disorder, yet some people experience Parkinson’s as young as 40 or even younger.

Although both genders are affected, studies show that men have a 50% higher chance than women of contracting the disease.

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms:

Now, the symptoms of this disorder vary from one person to another. The most commonly known symptoms of Parkinson’s include:

• Resting tremor: Shaking in your hands or other body parts without any movement.

• Slow movement: Reduced voluntary movement like slower walking or decreased facial expressions.

• Muscle stiffness: Difficulty in movement, which can be evaluated by a doctor.

• Other symptoms might include difficulty in balance, constipation, low blood pressure, and even sleep problems or depression.

What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease stems from the loss of nerve cells in the brain, which reduces dopamine levels and affects body movement. Scientists discovered that the main reason behind the symptoms of Parkinson’s is the death or impairment of nerve cells responsible for body movement. These cells, found in the brain, produce dopamine, and when they die, less dopamine is produced. This results in Parkinson’s disease. While it’s unclear why these cells die, it is believed to be due to genetic mutations or environmental factors.

What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Essential Tremors?

Essential tremor is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking, typically in the hands. It affects simple tasks, like holding a cup, and is the most common movement disorder, often hereditary.

Essential Tremor Symptoms

• A tremor in your voice: 

A person may experience a tremor when speaking.

Uncontrollable head movements, often in a nodding manner.

Difficulty in tasks like holding a glass or writing.

Essential Tremor Causes:

Some research suggests that genetic mutations may be responsible for essential tremor, also known as familial tremor. Additionally, some researchers believe the cause may lie in the GABA molecules in the brain, which control motor functions.

In Summary: How to Differentiate Between Parkinson’s and Essential Tremor?

What Treatments Are Available for Parkinson’s and Essential Tremor?

Although there is no known cure for these conditions, there are treatments available to help ease symptoms:

• Medication: 

Proper medications can reduce symptoms for both conditions.

Physical therapy may help with essential tremors.

A highly effective solution for tremors is the Steadi-Two glove from Steadiwear. This innovative device uses smart fluid technology and a counterweight to reduce hand tremors, allowing individuals with essential tremors or Parkinson’s to regain control of their hands and perform daily tasks more easily.

Steadiwear and Its Role in Managing Hand Tremors:

When it comes to managing shaky hands and uncontrollable hand tremors, the Steadi-Two glove is one of the most advanced assistive devices on the market. Created by Steadiwear, this glove uses a smart fluid that stiffens in response to tremors, countering their effect. 

A weighted mechanism moves in the opposite direction of the tremor, providing stabilization. Whether you're dealing with Parkinson’s or essential tremors, this glove can give you more control over your hand movements, improving the quality of life for many people.

FAQs:

1. Can essential tremor be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for essential tremors, but the symptoms can be managed through medication, therapy, and assistive devices. Medications, such as beta-blockers (like propranolol) and anticonvulsants (such as primidone), can help reduce the severity of tremors. For individuals who do not respond well to medication, surgical options like deep brain stimulation (DBS) or focused ultrasound may offer relief. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine intake and managing stress, can also help mitigate symptoms. Assistive devices like the Steadi-Two glove offer an alternative non-invasive solution, significantly improving hand stability for individuals with essential tremors and allowing them to perform daily activities more easily.

2. How does Parkinson's disease progress over time?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition, meaning its symptoms worsen gradually over time. Initially, symptoms may be mild, such as slight tremors or reduced facial expressions. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience increasing difficulty with movement, balance, and coordination. Non-motor symptoms like depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes, and digestive issues may also emerge. While medications can help manage these symptoms, they do not stop the progression of the disease. The rate at which Parkinson’s progresses varies significantly from person to person, and lifestyle factors, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can help improve overall well-being and slow symptom progression.

3. What are the risk factors for developing essential tremor?

The most significant risk factor for developing essential tremor is age, with the condition commonly appearing in people over the age of 40. However, younger individuals can also be affected. Genetics play a crucial role, as essential tremor is often familial, meaning that having a family member with the condition significantly increases your likelihood of developing it. About 50% of essential tremor cases are thought to be hereditary. While no environmental factors have been definitively linked to essential tremor, it is believed that stress, fatigue, and the consumption of caffeine or alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms. Adopting a healthy lifestyle may help minimize symptom severity.

4. Can lifestyle changes reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s or essential tremor?

Yes, lifestyle changes can play a vital role in managing both Parkinson’s and essential tremor symptoms. For people with Parkinson’s, engaging in regular physical exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve mobility, balance, and strength. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients can support brain health, while mental exercises can enhance cognitive function. For essential tremors, reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol intake, managing stress, and avoiding fatigue may help lessen tremors. Using assistive devices like the Steadi-Two glove for hand tremors can also significantly improve the quality of life, making daily tasks easier to manage.

5. What Age Does Essential Tremor Start? 

Essential tremor can begin at any age, affecting both children and adults, but it is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 40. This condition is one of the most frequently encountered movement disorders and has a strong genetic component; about 50% of individuals with essential tremor have a family history of the condition, indicating a hereditary link. Known as “familial tremor” in such cases, the condition often follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning a parent with the condition has a 50% chance of passing it on to their children.

As people with essential tremors age, the intensity of tremors may gradually increase, particularly in the hands, head, and voice, which can impact everyday tasks like eating, writing, and holding objects. However, despite these challenges, essential tremor is not life-threatening and does not reduce life expectancy. With proper management—including medications, lifestyle adjustments, and assistive devices—many people with essential tremors can lead fulfilling, active lives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while both Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor are challenging, advancements in research and technology provide hope for individuals affected by these conditions. Proper diagnosis and treatment, along with innovative solutions like the Steadi-Two glove, allow people to manage their symptoms and maintain a better quality of life. Remember, technology is not to be feared but embraced as it brings us closer to improving lives.

As Michael J. Fox said, “The latest research is the latest hope.” Let's continue to have hope in mankind and in the power of technology to change lives.