Tremor is a hyperkinetic movement disorder characterized by the rhythmic oscillation of one or more body parts. It can be incapacitating and have a negative impact on quality of life.
The tremor usually occurs at rest, for instance, when the hands are resting on the lap, and it disappears when the individual is actively moving.
It may occur as an isolated symptom or in combination with other symptoms. It is often the earliest symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
Although tremor is one of the classic symptoms of the disease, it is not the most significant. As a matter of fact, it does not affect 30% of patients.
It is important not to mistake Parkinson’s tremor with essential tremor, a “benign tremor” unrelated to the disease.