Tremors are involuntary movements commonly caused by muscle contractions and relaxation. While anyone can experience tremors at some point in their lives, hereditary diseases can increase the risk of developing tremors.
Understanding the relationship between tremors and hereditary diseases is crucial to identifying and managing the underlying causes of tremors. This article discusses the common hereditary diseases associated with tremors and the available management options.
What Are Tremors?
Tremors are rhythmic shaking movements that can affect different parts of the body, including the hands, arms, head, legs, and trunk. Tremors can occur at rest or during movement, but they tend to worsen with stress or anxiety.
Most tremors are benign and don’t require treatment; however, some may signal an underlying health problem, such as a neurological disorder.
What Causes Tremors?
Tremors can have various causes, including:.
- Drugs, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and corticosteroids
- Alcohol or drug withdrawal
- Hyperthyroidism
- Heavy metal poisoning, such as lead poisoning
- Brain injury
- Stroke
- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Essential tremor
- Dystonia
- Huntington’s disease
- Wilson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
Hereditary Diseases Associated With Tremors
While tremors can be caused by various factors, some hereditary diseases can increase the likelihood of developing tremors. Some of the most common diseases linked to tremors include:.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It develops gradually and typically affects people over the age of 60.
Parkinson’s disease is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. The loss of dopamine causes abnormal brain activity, resulting in tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement.
Essential Tremor
Essential tremor is a common hereditary disorder characterized by tremors that often occur in the hands, but can also affect the voice, head, and legs.
Essential tremor usually develops in middle-aged or older adults and slowly worsens over time, but it isn’t a life-threatening condition.
Related Article
The Genetic Link to Hand Tremors
Dystonia
Dystonia is a neurological disorder that affects muscle movement, causing uncontrollable and sometimes painful contractions. Dystonia can affect any part of the body, including the arms, legs, neck, and trunk.
Dystonia can be hereditary or acquired due to exposure to certain medications, brain injury, or stroke.
Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is a hereditary disorder that affects the brain, causing progressive damage to nerve cells. Early symptoms include personality changes, irritability, and difficulty with coordination and movement.
As the disease advances, it causes involuntary movements, dementia, and significant decline in mental and physical abilities.
Wilson’s Disease
Wilson’s disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes the buildup of copper in the body. Copper accumulates in the liver, brain, and other organs, causing neurological and psychiatric symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and depression.
If left untreated, Wilson’s disease can cause liver damage and potentially life-threatening complications.
How are Tremors and Hereditary Diseases Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of tremors and hereditary diseases may involve a physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests, such as:.
- Blood tests to detect genetic disorders, hormonal imbalances, and other underlying medical conditions
- Imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, to assess brain function and tissue damage
- Electromyogram (EMG) to detect nerve and muscle dysfunction
- Neurological evaluation to assess movement, coordination, and reflexes
- Skin biopsy to detect Wilson’s disease
How are Tremors and Hereditary Diseases Treated?
The treatment of tremors and hereditary diseases depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Treatment options may include:.
- Medications, such as beta-blockers, antiepileptic drugs, and benzodiazepines, to reduce tremors and other associated symptoms
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS), a surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to regulate abnormal brain activity
- Botox injections to relax muscles and reduce muscle contractions in dystonia
- Dietary changes and medication to reduce copper accumulation in Wilson’s disease
- Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques, to reduce tremor frequency and severity
What You Need to Know
If you or a loved one experiences tremors, it’s essential to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying health conditions.
While tremors can be an inconvenience, they may also signal a severe neurological disorder that requires prompt treatment. If you have a family history of tremors or hereditary diseases, it’s crucial to inform your doctor to assess your risk and recommend preventive measures, such as genetic counseling and testing.
