Tremors
What is tremor?
Tremor is an unintentional, somewhat rhythmic, muscle movement involving
to-and-fro movements (oscillations) of one or more parts of the body. It is the
most common of all involuntary movements and can affect the hands, arms, head,
face, vocal cords, trunk, and legs. Most tremors occur in the hands. In some
people, tremor is a symptom of another neurological disorder. The most common
form of tremor, however, occurs in otherwise healthy people. Although tremor is
not life-threatening, it can be embarrassing to some people and make it harder
to perform daily tasks.
What causes tremor?
Tremor is generally caused by problems in parts of the brain that control
muscles throughout the body or in particular areas, such as the
hands. Neurological disorders or conditions that can produce tremor include
multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative
diseases that damage or destroy parts of the brainstem or the cerebellum. Other
causes include the use of some drugs (such as amphetamines, corticosteroids, and
drugs used for certain psychiatric disorders),
alcohol abuse or withdrawal,
mercury poisoning, overactive thyroid, or liver failure. Some forms of tremor
are inherited and run in families, while others have no known cause.
Next: What are the characteristics of tremors? »
- Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article.
- Hyperthyroidism - Learn about hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland) symptoms such as irritability, tachycardia, heat intolerance, increased sweating, weight gain, and more, as well as the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of hyperthyroidism.
- metoprolol, Lopressor, Toprol XL - Learn more about Metoprolol, a drug to treat high blood pressure, heart pain, abnormal rhythms of the heart, and some neurological conditions. Information includes a description, generic and brand names, drug class and mechanism, preparations, storage, reasons for prescription, dosing, drug interactions, effect on pregnancy, and common side effects.
Latest Medical News
|
|
 |
From WebMD
Healthy Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Tremors
Mercury Poisoning »
Mercury introduction
Mercury is contained in some of the fish we eat, whether caught in local
lakes and streams or bought in a grocery store. Mercury is also contained in
some of the products we use, which may be found in your home, at the dentist,
and at schools. This article provides links to information about sources of mercury
exposure, potential health effects, fish that may contain mercury, consumer
products that contain mercury, and ways to reduce your exposure to mercury.
General information about mercury and mercury
exposure
Forms of mercury. Mercury is a naturally occurring
element that is found in air, water and soil. It exists in several forms:
- elemental or metallic mercury,
- inorganic mercury compounds, and
- organic mercury compounds.
Sources of mercury. Mercury is an element in the earth's crust. Humans cannot
create or destroy mercury. Pu...
Read the Mercury Poisoning article »
|
Neurology RSS