Is Your Trembling Caused by Parkinson’s — or a Condition With Similar Symptoms?

Tremors can be unsettling, but they don’t always signal Parkinson’s disease. Several other conditions cause similar symptoms, making it crucial to understand the differences between Parkinson’s and other movement disorders to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment.

At DeyeNAMICS, a nationally recognized group of neuro-optometric practices, our team is happy to provide information to help you make informed health decisions. For those with neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, we also offer advanced therapies designed to reduce its debilitating visual effects.

Read more about Parkinson’s, other conditions that cause tremors, and treatments we offer.

Understanding Parkinson’s Tremors

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. One of its hallmark symptoms is a resting tremor. This means the trembling or shaking occurs when the affected limb is at rest and often improves with movement.

About 80% of people with Parkinson’s have a tremor that frequently starts in a single hand or foot but eventually involves both sides of the body. The tremor can also occur in the chin, jaw, or mouth. Some people also report an internal tremor or the sensation of their insides quivering.  

Other signs of Parkinson’s include:

• Slow movement (bradykinesia)
• Muscle stiffness (rigidity)
• Postural instability or balance problems
• Visual changes including blurry vision, double vision, and dry eye

Parkinson’s tremors may present as a rhythmic shaking or “pill-rolling” motion between the thumb and forefinger.

Other Conditions that Cause Tremors

While Parkinson’s is a well-known cause of tremors, several other conditions can lead to similar symptoms:

Essential Tremor (ET)

Essential tremor is the most common type of tremor and is frequently mistaken for Parkinson’s. However, unlike Parkinson’s, ET causes action tremors, which occur when performing activities like holding a cup or writing. Essential tremors tend to affect both sides of the body and may worsen with stress or caffeine intake.

Medication-Induced Tremors

Certain medications, including some antidepressants, asthma inhalers, and antipsychotics, can cause tremors as a side effect. If your shaking began after starting a new medication, we recommend consulting the prescribing physician.

Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause fine, rapid tremors along with other symptoms like weight loss, fast heartbeat, and anxiety.

Anxiety and Stress-Related Tremors

High levels of stress and anxiety can trigger temporary tremors, especially in the hands. Unlike Parkinson’s, these tremors typically resolve when stress levels decrease.

Dystonia

Dystonic tremors occur due to involuntary muscle contractions that lead to abnormal postures. These tremors can be irregular and worsen with specific movements depending on the part of the body they affect.

Finding the Right Care for Your Symptoms

If you experience tremors, a neurologist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Should your tremors stem from Parkinson’s disease, managing the condition requires a comprehensive approach that addresses more than just movement symptoms.

At DeyeNAMICS, we specialize in neuro-optometric care designed to support people with Parkinson’s, helping them maintain visual function and overall well-being. Neuro-optometric rehab can be a game-changer for patients with Parkinson’s, addressing vision-related challenges that impact mobility, balance, and daily activities. Also, because Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, regular neuro-optometric care can help adapt visual rehabilitation strategies over time, optimizing function and improving overall quality of life.

With the right support, you can effectively address your symptoms. Schedule a visit to DeyeNAMICS today by contacting one of our six locations across the United States. Give us a call or request an appointment online.