MyParkinsonsTeam

What's the difference between essential tremor and Parkinson's tremor?

The main difference is when the shaking happens:

Parkinson's tremor occurs when you're at rest. Your hand might shake while sitting on your lap or resting on a chair arm, but the shaking stops when you reach for something.

Essential tremor happens Show Full Answer

What's the difference between essential tremor and Parkinson's tremor?

The main difference is when the shaking happens:

Parkinson's tremor occurs when you're at rest. Your hand might shake while sitting on your lap or resting on a chair arm, but the shaking stops when you reach for something.

Essential tremor happens during movement or action. You might not notice shaking until you reach for a glass or try to use your hands.

Here are other key differences:

Speed and size:
- Parkinson's tremors are slower but have a larger range of motion
- They often have a "pill-rolling" motion where the wrist moves and fingertips roll together

Body parts affected:
- Parkinson's can affect hands, jaw, or tongue, but rarely the head or voice
- Essential tremor commonly affects hands, head, and voice

Other symptoms:
- Parkinson's includes slowness, stiffness, and balance problems
- Essential tremor is primarily just the tremor itself

Family history:
- Over half of people with essential tremor have family members with it
- Less than 10% of people with Parkinson's have a family history

Response to treatment:
- Parkinson's symptoms typically improve with carbidopa/levodopa
- Essential tremor may respond to propranolol or primidone instead

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Essential Tremor vs. Parkinson’s Disease Explained