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<A HREF="http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/askphys/qa000403.htm">Click here: Ask the Mayo Physician - Familial tremor</A> Current Q uestion & A nswer Category: Neurology | Topic: Familial tremor Q. My husband's hands shake. The Dr. calls it Familiar Shaking. Can you provide more information on this? Marilyn / Fla. A. It sounds like your doctor is describing the familial form of essential tremor. Symptoms of this condition are outlined below. As you read, see if they relate to your husband's condition. The initial and most prominent symptom is shaking of the hand(s), which begins in middle-aged or older people and slowly progresses over time. There may be an associated head or voice tremor. Voluntary movements such as eating or writing become jerky and uncoordinated. The tremor occurs with movement but is not present at rest or during sleep. It is made worse by stress, caffeine and other stimulants and often is lessened by alcohol, mild sedatives and relaxation. People with these symptoms often are concerned about the possibility of Parkinson's disease. However, most people with essential tremor do not exhibit the other signs of Parkinson's disease, such as slowness of movement, loss of dexterity and reduced facial expression. The cause of essential tremor is not known. In nearly half the cases, there is a family history of a similar tremor — when this history is present, the condition is referred to as a familial tremor. It generally is not a sign of early Parkinson's disease or of other, more serious neurologic problems. Medications used to treat Parkinson's disease are not of benefit. Several relatively safe and effective treatment options are available, but none are curative. Since the goals of treatment are directed primarily at relieving symptoms, many people — especially those with relatively mild symptoms — prefer to avoid treatment. http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/askphys/qa000403.htm Bonnie daughter of Jim 77/72 * * * Live well * Laugh often * Love much Join SPARKLE [log in to unmask]