Neurodegenerative or Not?

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There is currently a lot of discussion within the ET research community as to whether Essential Tremor is neurodegenerative. If it is, there is further debate as to what percentage are neurodegenerative of those who have been diagnosed with ET.

When I was first diagnosed with Essential Tremor, I was told I had Benign Essential Tremor. If ET is neurodegenerative, it certainly is not benign. At a time when a lot of attention (rightly so) is being given to the neurodegenerative aspects of such conditions as Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Parkinson’s, I feel that special attention should be given to this possibly life-altering  aspect of Essential Tremor.

Peter Muller
Executive Director

4 thoughts on “Neurodegenerative or Not?”

  1. Benign Essential Tremor is basically a disorder of the nervous system in which a patient experiences rhythmic shaking and it can affect any part of your body. In this sort of disorder the shaking usually occurs in the hands therefore it is known as the tremor of hands. It gets very difficult to perform even the easiest routine tasks like drinking water, eating, driving, writing, shaving or other activities that involve major participation of your hands. It is not a very hazardous medical condition but it does get worse with time therefore needs immediate medical supervision so that the disaster can be avoided.
    http://www.naturalherbsclinic.com/Benign-Essential-Tremor.php

  2. Discovered in Montreal of a gene that causes essential tremor
    Essential tremor affects mainly the hands of those affected Photo: iStock
    Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified the first gene that could explain some cases of essential tremor (ET), which will eventually allow a better diagnosis of this disease often confused with Parkinson’s.

    The study by Dr. Rouleau and his team, to be published Friday in the journal The American Journal of Human Genetics, reveals that mutations in a gene called FUS (Fused in Sarcoma) could lead to cases of TE.

    This is the first study establishing the cause of neurological disease, characterized by degeneration (cell death) of brain regions controlling motor muscles.

    Still relatively unknown, the TE is the most common motor disorder in the population, and its frequency increases with age. The tremors in people affected mainly affect the hands, may be difficult for some daily tasks such as work, write, eat or drink.

    To find the FUS gene, researchers have “identified a typical family and considered all of the key genes in individuals who were affected in this family,” says Dr. Nancy Merner. “This simple approach has clinics around the obstacles that hampered earlier attempts to identify genes causing TE,” she adds.

    The discovery of this gene is particularly significant as it could lead to the development of a genetic test that would provide a better diagnosis of this disease, often confused with early Parkinson’s. Diagnostic errors occur “in 37 to 50% of cases of TE,” said Dr. Guy Rouleau.

    The researchers are now focusing on developing drugs to improve the quality of life of people afflicted by these quakes.

    via Facebook Jacques Barbieaux – Tremblement Essentiel

  4. I have been told I have ESSENTIAL TREMORS since in my late 50’s now 81 it is getting worse.
    Have tried all medication very bad side effects, would like to try the ultrasound this problem has ruined my life. I cannot write, My driving days are gone, lost my husband and no help. Lots of depression. also eating very hard to go out in public.
    Now I am feeling my knees are getting trembling.

    So where do you go for help? All take money

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