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What Causes An Increase In Hand Tremors?

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Posted on Tue, 14 Feb 2017
Question: My husband has an increased tremor in his right hand, difficulty with balance and decreased cognitive ability. He asked me our address number this morning and has for awhile been saying one thing when he means another. He may say apple when he means orange and this happens quite frequently.
Thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (58 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Several potential causes, tests needed.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

The manifestations you mention are indeed worrying. They do raise the concern of a involvement. It is not very clear since when have the symptoms started to manifest, whether it has been an abrupt change or a gradually progression over weeks/months/years.
If it has been in an abrupt manner then the main issue to suspect would be a stroke. If a progressive course then other causes such as tumor, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease etc would be suspected. Repeated strokes would remain a possible cause even in a progressive case.

So, i believe that neurological exam to detect possible neurological signs indicating stroke, tumor or parkinsonian symptoms is necessary followed by brain imaging by CT or MRI. Some routine blood tests for metabolic issues should also be done (glucose, liver and kidney function, electrolyte panel, vitamin B12 level).

Further potential tests and management will depend on the results of these initial steps.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Olsi Taka (2 hours later)
Thank you very much
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (1 minute later)
Brief Answer:
You're welcome.

Detailed Answer:
I hope things work out for the best.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3672 Questions

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What Causes An Increase In Hand Tremors?

Brief Answer: Several potential causes, tests needed. Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. The manifestations you mention are indeed worrying. They do raise the concern of a involvement. It is not very clear since when have the symptoms started to manifest, whether it has been an abrupt change or a gradually progression over weeks/months/years. If it has been in an abrupt manner then the main issue to suspect would be a stroke. If a progressive course then other causes such as tumor, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease etc would be suspected. Repeated strokes would remain a possible cause even in a progressive case. So, i believe that neurological exam to detect possible neurological signs indicating stroke, tumor or parkinsonian symptoms is necessary followed by brain imaging by CT or MRI. Some routine blood tests for metabolic issues should also be done (glucose, liver and kidney function, electrolyte panel, vitamin B12 level). Further potential tests and management will depend on the results of these initial steps. I remain at your disposal for other questions.