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By Mayo Clinic staffEssential tremor symptoms:
- Begin gradually
- Worsen with movement
- Occur in the hands first, affecting one hand or both hands
- Can include a "yes-yes" or "no-no" motion of the head
- Are aggravated by emotional stress, fatigue, caffeine or extremes of temperature
Essential tremor vs. Parkinson's disease
Many people associate tremors with Parkinson's disease, but the two conditions differ in key ways:
- When tremors occur. Essential tremor of the hands typically occurs when your hands are in use. Tremors from Parkinson's are most prominent when your hands are at your sides or resting in your lap.
- Associated conditions. Essential tremor doesn't cause other health problems, whereas Parkinson's is associated with a stooped posture, slow movement and a shuffling gait.
- Parts of body affected. Essential tremor can involve your hands, head and voice. Tremors from Parkinson's typically affect your hands, but not your head or voice.