Tremor

Definition

A tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic shaking movement of a body part, often the hands, head, or voice. Tremors can be a symptom of various neurological and medical conditions, and they can also occur as a side effect of certain medications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tremors can be a symptom of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and coordination.
2. Anti-Parkinsonian drugs, such as levodopa and dopamine agonists, are used to manage tremors and other motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.
3. Mood stabilizers, like lithium and valproic acid, can sometimes cause tremors as a side effect, particularly when the medication is first started or the dose is changed.
4. Tremors can be classified into different types based on their characteristics, such as resting tremor, action tremor, and intention tremor.
5. Certain lifestyle factors, such as stress, fatigue, and caffeine consumption, can exacerbate tremors in individuals with underlying neurological conditions.

Review Questions

• Explain how tremors are related to the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease.
  • Parkinson's disease is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. This leads to an imbalance in the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and acetylcholine, which are responsible for coordinating smooth, controlled movements. The resulting disruption in motor function manifests as the classic Parkinsonian tremor, often seen as a resting tremor in the hands or limbs.
• Describe the role of anti-Parkinsonian drugs in the management of tremors.
  • Anti-Parkinsonian drugs, such as levodopa and dopamine agonists, work by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly by increasing dopamine levels. This helps to improve motor function and reduce the severity of tremors associated with Parkinson's disease. These medications are often the mainstay of treatment, as they can effectively manage the cardinal symptoms of the disease, including tremors, bradykinesia, and rigidity.
• Analyze the potential relationship between mood stabilizers and the occurrence of tremors.
  • Certain mood stabilizers, like lithium and valproic acid, can sometimes cause tremors as an adverse effect, particularly when the medication is first started or the dose is adjusted. This is thought to be due to the drugs' effects on the central nervous system, which can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters and lead to involuntary movements. Recognizing this potential side effect is important, as it may require dose adjustments or the use of alternative mood-stabilizing medications to effectively manage both the psychiatric condition and the associated tremors.

Related terms

Parkinson's Disease:

A progressive neurological disorder characterized by tremors, muscle stiffness, and impaired movement and balance.

Benzodiazepines:

A class of medications commonly used as anti-anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, and sedatives, which can sometimes cause tremors as a side effect.

Essential Tremor: A common type of tremor that typically affects the hands and head, and is often the first sign of a neurological condition.