6 Ways Of Managing Tremors

Do you experience involuntary tremors? The loss of muscle control not only occurs in the hands but can also affect the torso, vocal cords, legs or the head. Tremors are different for individuals since they can come from various causes. Doctors say that tremors come from a rhythmic contraction of muscles that causes a shaky feeling.

Though they may not be life-threatening, they can have an impact on your life in that you may experience problems holding items, drawing or even writing. Today, we will discuss tremors in detail to help victims understand the condition better and find ways of dealing with it. Enjoy!

What are the causes of tremors?

The cause of these contractions stems from the brain. They may be brought about by health problems or neurological conditions. Movement disorders can also cause tremors. Some of the neurological conditions that are associated with tremors include multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and brain injury.
Patients who have multiple sclerosis have mild or intense tremors since the condition can damage parts of the nervous system which are responsible for controlling movement. In those that suffer from a stroke, the blood clots, and blocks arteries. This prevents the flow of blood to the brain thus, damaging neurological pathways and causing tremors.

Some people also get brain injuries that damage the nerves which coordinate body movement. When these nerves are affected, it causes hand tremors. The Parkinson’s disease also affects movement and may cause tremors in one area of the body. Such patients have intense tremors especially when they are stressed or going through intense emotions.

Movement disorders can also cause two types of tremors namely essential and dystonic tremors. The cause of essential tremors is not known though this can affect both the left and right sides of your body. Most victims of this type experience tremors on the dominant side of their body. It is rumored to come from genetics.

There is also dystonic tremors where your brain can transmit inaccurate messages making the muscles to overreact. This type of tremor can lead to abnormal postures and movements. It is more prevalent in young adults than the elderly. Health issues such as Post-traumatic stress, mercury poisoning, and kidney failure can also lead to tremors.

How can you prevent tremors?

Physical therapy teaches you how to control your muscles. This can also improve your balance and coordination. Find an occupational therapist who helps you enhance the functioning of your muscles. They can also assist you to conduct daily activities with ease.

Therapy encourages you to engage in specific exercises such as weight lifting, splints and well as using adaptive equipment. A language pathologist can help people with speech and communication disorders. If you have a swallowing disorder or a voice tremor, look for this form of therapy.

Use psychological techniques

Sometimes, tremors come from panic and anxiety that makes your brain cause abnormal movements. Relaxation techniques come in handy in reversing this situation. You can engage in meditation, yoga or guided imagery. These techniques harmonize your body and mind to help you eliminate anxiety.

Avoid drugs

Stimulant abuse is also another factor that may cause tremors. Get professional help for abuse of substances such as cocaine, alcohol, and caffeine since they are very harmful to your health. These substances destroy nerve cells in the body leading to involuntary movements.

Some certain forms of medication may also lead to tremors. This includes asthma medicines, corticosteroids, and psychiatric medicines. Let your doctor know of such side effects from medicines so that they can prescribe dosages that do not affect your body movements.

Consider treatment options

Different treatment options exist to reduce severe tremors depending on the cause. For instance, beta blockers like nadolol are used in the case of essential tremors. You can also get medications like primidone which prevent you from experiencing seizures.

In cases when the cause of your tremors is unknown, you can take tranquilizers to reduce their effects. These may be in the form of a botox though one should be aware of the side effects of tranquilizers. Most of them cause drowsiness, poor coordination and low concentration.

Injections such as botulinum are also used to treat head tremor. The problem with this form of treatment is that they lead to muscle weakness in areas such as the fingers. When it is used in cases of voice tremor, it leads to a hoarse voice on patients as well as swallowing problems.

Go for surgery

Some tremors may not respond to medication and may need surgery. Brain stimulation is a form of surgery that is used to treat tremors. In this case, a generator is placed underneath your skin to transmit signals to the brain. The electrical signals reach to the regions that are responsible for coordinating movements to correct them.

Thalamotomy is an alternative procedure that is used to treat tremors that come from diseases such as Parkinson’s. A surgeon performs this procedure by creating lesions inside the region of the brain known as the thalamus. This method is useful since it makes the tremors go away without interfering with motor or sensory control.

Practice breathing exercises

Exercises such as rhythmic breathing can assist in relaxation. Control short, hurried breathes with long slow ones. Try to breathe in and out slowly as you count. You can also use your imagination to conduct visualized breathing. Imagine a scene of relaxation getting into your body as tension leaves. Visualize how your breath enters your nostrils into the lungs and chest. Concentrate on regions that are tense in your body and relax them as you breathe.

Practice rotating the head in circular motions as you release any tension. Roll the shoulders for some time allowing the muscles to relax. You can also use music to achieve a calming and soothing effect. It can also boost your mood and eliminate stress.

Final thoughts

Tremors can limit you when it comes to certain daily activities like driving. Finding ways of reducing them can help you improve the quality of your life and bring satisfaction. Therefore, seek medical attention to identify the cause as you adjust your lifestyle.

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Adam

Adam runs the grooming section at Unfinished Man, where he reviews the latest hair, skin, and shave products for men. With a passion for men's grooming, he continuously tests shampoos, conditioners, gels, moisturizers, razors, and more. Adam provides knowledgeable, trustworthy recommendations to help readers upgrade their routines. His background in evaluating hundreds of products makes him an expert on finding the best innovations for every guy's needs.

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