Essential tremor

Question 1

What is essential tremor?

Answer 1

Essential tremor is an autosomal dominant condition which usually affects both upper limbs.

Question 2

What are the features of essential tremor?

Answer 2

Features include postural tremor (worse if arms outstretched), improvement by alcohol and rest, and it is the most common cause of titubation (head tremor).

Question 3

What is the first-line management for essential tremor?

Answer 3

Propranolol is the first-line treatment.

Question 4

What is sometimes used in the management of essential tremor?

Answer 4

Primidone is sometimes used.