Wellness

[traveler]

Someone I know was recently diagnosed with this. Her hands shake wildly. Doctor’s only advice was be grateful it isn’t Parkinson. And pointed out Katherine Hepburn had it. Any advice?

[SeaMaiden]

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@traveler wrote:

Someone I know was recently diagnosed with this. Her hands shake wildly. Doctor’s only advice was be grateful it isn’t Parkinson. And pointed out Katherine Hepburn had it. Any advice?

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It is still hard to live with even if not parkinsons..... is there any type of brain stimulation that may help aleviate some of the symptoms?  I know they do that with parkinsons now.

[Imaoldhippie]

Get a 2nd opinion.

[Justice4all]

@traveler

Focused ultrasound..I just looked it up as a new treatment for benign essential tremors

[phoenixbrd]

@traveler  First, I would acknowledge that the doctor's opinion was inappropriately insensitive and not helpful.  I would suggest that she do a lot of research and write down questions and concerns before seeking a second opinion with a another doctor.  You are a good friend to be concerned, I'm sure she appreciates your friendship during this challenging time.

[traveler]

Thank you for your kind replies.

[gmkb]

Neurological issues are not that easy to diagnos.  If your friend is seeing the local neurologist rather than an expert at a large teaching hospital, I would not necessarily trust that diagnosis.  It may be correct, but better to be sure.

I am speaking from personal experience.  Without going into a lot of detail, I was diagnosed incorrectly (not with tremor, but another issue) locally for almost a year.  Ironically I was told the same thing - 

"be happy it isn't one of the more serious diseases.". Finally I saw a neurologist at a nearby city with a large teaching hospital.  One lab test gave him the correct answer.  

The local dr. did many blood tests, but not the right test.

[Ibby114]

It's been in my family for years- not as bad as Katharine Hepburn. My Dad had the shakes if he tried to keep his hand steady -without his arm resting on a surface- in one position. I have it somewhat also- and have given up on eyeliner!! 

[Dra]

see a neurologist who is familiar with this disease there are medications / treatments for this condition I would not stay with a doctor who is so dismissive you are a good friend

[Turbosmom]

I happened to mention to my GP at my wellness check last year that my hands were shaking badly.  She ordered thyroid testing, which revealed a severely hyperactive thyroid, so your friend might want to get hers checked.