How are tremors diagnosed?
Close attention to where and how the tremor appears can help provide a correct diagnosis of the cause of the shaking. The source of the tremor can be diagnosed when the underlying condition is found. Diagnostic techniques that make images of the brain, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may help form a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis or other tremor caused by disorders of the central nervous system. Blood tests can rule out metabolic causes such as thyroid disease. A family history can help determine whether the tremor is inherited.
There is no specific test for essential tremor and it is usually easy to diagnose simply by exam and medical history. However, if your doctor suspects the tremor is caused by an underlying condition, he or she may order some diagnostic tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to check brain function. He or she may order blood tests to check for other causes as well. |