Essential Tremor Support Group

Hello all, As I may have said before, my tremors started in my head and voice. I am now, however, beginning to experience strange feelings and some uncontrolled movement in my right arm and right leg. The leg movement occurs when I lay down to go to bed, the right arm movement is in the hand and wrist with cramping in the fingers and palm. Does anyone know if this is continuation of the tremors or something new? And should I be concerned that it is unilateral? Am really starting to worry about Parkinsons disease and have been told by my sister-in-law that I should be tested for MS. What do you folks think? Thanks and take care. Clark

I agree with your sister. One thing I learned about ET is that the difference between it and Parkinson's is that with ET, your body practically stops shaking when at rest. In Parkinson's it continues at rest. My tremors began in my right side and has moved to my head and chest as well as in my left arm. I think that Parkinson's had the same look with various differences. Good luck...I would definitely get tested. Oh and Parkinson's patients lack dopamine in their brains and ET patients lack seratonin (I think). Big difference there.

So if it is seratonin (now I'm hoping you looking into this )would the majority of people with ET suffer from depression?

I would think so. Depression for me has been somewhat regular due to my inability to move properly and hold a fork, cup of liquid, cigarette (yes, I know), and all that stuff. I was at my doctor yesterday and he could see my downslide physically and mentally. It doesn't help that I have Bipolar on top of it. But, I asked him if I could cry now and he literally teared up. I've had this doctor for 9+ years now and he is awesome. He's tried me on Cogentin, Propanolol, and Mysoline, none of which worked. Now, today, I'm going to the neurologist (I'm sure I'm going to cry!). Initially he wanted me to go to Portland Oregon for a month at a "Movement Clinic". I just can't do it. Single mom with young kids. Anyway, I read that thing about the brain surgery. I'm ready to scream I WANT IT! I'll let you know how things go today. Hang in there. I'll hang in there with you! Take care. Launie

Oh one more thing....there is an Essential Tremors Foundation where I read all this. I'll try to remember to get the link. You can also look on WebMD for information.

Im a bit late into this but the cramping in you fingers and palms. Can be many different neurological disorders but is a common sign for MS its called "Spasticity". Go ASAP to your Neurologist.

Boon