Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder. Hand tremors are rhythmic handshakes that start from one hand and affect both hands gradually. Every individual who has Parkinson’s disease will not face tremors, but hand tremors are considered symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In this blog, let’s explore hand tremors in Parkinson’s disease.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
The breakdown of nerve cells causes Parkinson’s disease. Movement and coordination of the body need dopamine, which also helps in other functions of the body. The body loses the ability to function when the dopamine is decreased. When these neurons deteriorate, dopamine levels decrease, leading to a disturbance in normal body function.
As the exact cause is not yet identified, the combination of genetic and environmental factors is to be considered as a cause. Some cases are linked to genetic mutations, while others may be associated with exposure to toxins and head injuries. This disease develops in people over the age of 60, so ageing is considered a major factor. If you are going through Parkinson’s, visit the best neurologist in Coimbatore for expert care and advanced treatment.
What is a hand tremor? How is it linked with Parkinson’s disease?
If the actions of the hands are involuntary, it is known as a hand tremor. This type of action happens when the hands are in a resting position or performing activities like holding a cup or writing. Factors like stress, fatigue, or neurological disorders can cause hand tremors. One of the major links to hand tremors and shaking in Parkinson’s disease is the loss of dopamine. The movements will be affected by this brain disorder. Not all hand tremors indicate Parkinson’s, other conditions like essential tremors, anxiety, or other medical issues may cause hand tremors. If hand tremors are caused by Parkinson’s tremors, they are accompanied by other symptoms like muscle stiffness and balance problems.
What are the reasons that can cause hand tremors in Parkinson’s disease?
Problems in the brain’s movement control system cause hand tremors, there will be a continuous shaking of hands. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control muscle movements, which plays a crucial role in hand tremors. Some of the key reasons for these tremors are:
Loss of dopamine
Neurons are produced by dopamine. This leads to a drop in dopamine levels, which reduces the communication between brain areas responsible for controlling movements.
Basal ganglia dysfunction
A group of brain structures that controls voluntary movements. It plays an important role in making movements smooth and coordinated. If this is not working, it also causes hand tremors.
Overactivity in the thalamus
The thalamus is important for processing and relaying movement signals from one area of the brain to another. It works closely with the basal ganglia to ensure smooth and controlled movement. In Parkinson’s disease, a loss of dopamine in the brain leads to a chain reaction that affects how these areas communicate. One result of this is overactivity in the thalamus, which contributes to hand tremors.
Imbalance between brain chemicals
Dopamine is not the only chemical involved in this process; it also works with other neurotransmitters, especially acetylcholine, to balance. Dopamine and acetylcholine work together in a healthy brain to regulate the signals that control muscle movements. Acetylcholine becomes relatively more active if the levels of dopamine drop and cause tremors.
Genetic and environmental factors
Genetic and environmental factors interact and contribute to the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. Gene mutations are linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. These genes are involved in regulating mitochondrial function and protein processing.
Understanding these causes of hand tremors in Parkinson’s disease is important for effective management.
Hand tremors early sign of Parkinson’s disease
Hand tremors can be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease, but it is not the only symptom. If you notice this symptom in advance, get Parkinson’s treatment in Coimbatore to control the hand tremor before it gets worse. Many people only notice slight shaking in one hand, usually when the hand is at rest, and it is said to be a resting tremor. This is a common symptom of Parkinson’s. Tremor begins in the fingers, thumbs, or hand. At the beginning it may be mild over time it can become more noticeable when it spreads to the other side of the body. It’s important to know that everyone who has hand tremors is not affected by Parkinson’s. Some others might feel depressed, or they may notice a loss of smell before the beginning of movement problems.
Conclusion
If any individual notices a hand tremor while the hand is resting, it’s better to consult a doctor to avoid further complications. As hand tremors can be an early sign of Parkinson’s, early detection is important. Early detection of Parkinson’s can help manage the symptoms, and the recovery can improve with lifestyle changes and medical support. Regular physical activity and sleep hygiene are some of the lifestyle changes that help in a better recovery process. Stay informed to avoid risky diseases.