What are the common causes of thumb and index finger tremor. How can you identify when finger twitching requires medical attention. What treatments are available for various types of finger tremors.

Understanding Finger Twitching: Causes and Concerns

Finger twitching, particularly in the thumb and index finger, is a common phenomenon that can be both alarming and frustrating. These involuntary muscle contractions, while often harmless, can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. Understanding the causes and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for proper management and peace of mind.

What exactly is finger twitching?

Finger twitching refers to small, involuntary contractions and relaxations of the muscles in the fingers. These twitches can range from barely noticeable to quite pronounced, and may occur sporadically or persistently. While they can affect any finger, twitches in the thumb and index finger are particularly common due to the frequent use of these digits in daily activities.

Medication Side Effects: A Common Culprit

One of the most prevalent causes of finger twitching is the side effect of certain medications. Various drugs can interfere with normal muscle function, leading to involuntary movements.

Which medications are known to cause finger twitching?

Several types of medications have been associated with muscle twitches, including:

• Corticosteroids
• Isoniazid (an antibiotic)
• Succinylcholine (a muscle relaxant)
• Flunarizine (a calcium channel blocker)
• Topiramate (an epilepsy medication)
• Lithium (used in psychiatric treatment)

If you’re experiencing finger twitches and are taking any of these medications, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or recommend an alternative treatment to alleviate the symptoms.

Nutritional Deficiencies: The Hidden Cause of Tremors

Sometimes, the root of finger twitching lies in what’s missing from your diet. Nutritional deficiencies can have a significant impact on muscle function and nerve signaling, leading to involuntary movements.

Can magnesium deficiency cause finger twitching?

Yes, a magnesium deficiency can indeed cause muscle cramps and tremors, including in the fingers. While rare in healthy individuals, certain factors can increase the risk of magnesium deficiency:

• Alcohol use disorder
• Certain medical conditions
• Use of specific medications

Early symptoms of magnesium deficiency may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. As the deficiency progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as numbness, tingling, muscle contractions, irregular heartbeat, and even personality changes.

How does vitamin E deficiency affect finger movement?

While less common, vitamin E deficiency can also lead to tremors. A case study reported a man in his mid-20s who developed tremors in his upper limbs due to vitamin E deficiency. Additional symptoms included changes in gait and posture, difficulty articulating, and cognitive decline.

Treatment for nutritional deficiency-related tremors typically involves supplementation under medical supervision. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure proper dosage and avoid potential interactions with other medications or conditions.

Benign Fasciculation Syndrome: When Twitches Become Persistent

Benign Fasciculation Syndrome (BFS) is a condition characterized by widespread, involuntary muscle twitches that persist over time. While the exact cause remains unknown, research has suggested a link between BFS and decreased neurological activity in small nerve fibers of the skin and sweat glands.

Is Benign Fasciculation Syndrome a serious condition?

Despite its persistent nature, BFS is not considered a serious condition and does not progress to motor neuron disease. In most cases, it doesn’t require treatment. However, for those significantly affected by the twitches, certain medications may help manage symptoms:

• Gabapentin, which acts on the nervous system
• Carbamazepine and phenytoin, typically used for epilepsy

It’s important to note that using these drugs for BFS is considered off-label use, meaning they’re not specifically FDA-approved for this condition. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

Essential Tremor: When Shaking Becomes Consistent

Essential tremor is a neurological condition characterized by rhythmic, involuntary shaking. While it most commonly affects the hands, it can also impact the arms, head, and even voice.

How does essential tremor differ from other types of tremors?

Unlike occasional twitches, essential tremor involves repeated movements with consistent frequency and force. It’s the most common neurological cause of tremors, though its exact cause remains unknown. While essential tremor doesn’t affect life expectancy, it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to disability in severe cases.

What treatment options are available for essential tremor?

Treatment for essential tremor often involves a combination of medical and non-medical interventions. Medications are typically prescribed in a tiered approach:

1. First-line treatments: Beta-blockers (such as propranolol) or primidone
2. Second-line treatments: Topiramate, gabapentin, or benzodiazepines
3. Third-line treatments: Botulinum toxin injections or deep brain stimulation in severe cases

Non-medical interventions may include lifestyle modifications, such as reducing caffeine intake, using weighted utensils, and practicing relaxation techniques.

Stress and Anxiety: The Mind-Body Connection

While not mentioned in the original text, it’s important to note that stress and anxiety can significantly contribute to muscle twitches, including those in the fingers.

How do stress and anxiety cause finger twitching?

When we’re stressed or anxious, our bodies release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause muscle tension and hyperarousal of the nervous system, potentially leading to twitches and tremors. Additionally, stress and anxiety often lead to poor sleep and increased caffeine consumption, both of which can exacerbate muscle twitches.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and potentially cognitive-behavioral therapy can help reduce stress-related finger twitches. In some cases, anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed if stress and anxiety are severe and significantly impacting daily life.

Caffeine and Stimulants: The Double-Edged Sword

While many people rely on caffeine and other stimulants for an energy boost, excessive consumption can lead to unwanted side effects, including finger twitches.

Can reducing caffeine intake help with finger twitching?

Yes, reducing caffeine intake can often help alleviate finger twitches. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, which can lead to increased muscle tension and twitching, particularly when consumed in large amounts. Other stimulants, such as nicotine and certain medications, can have similar effects.

If you’re experiencing persistent finger twitches, consider gradually reducing your caffeine intake. Pay attention to hidden sources of caffeine, such as chocolate, certain teas, and some over-the-counter medications. Remember to reduce intake slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

When to See a Doctor: Recognizing Red Flags

While occasional finger twitches are usually harmless, certain symptoms warrant medical attention.

What symptoms accompanying finger twitches require immediate medical attention?

Seek medical care if your finger twitches are accompanied by:

• Muscle weakness or atrophy
• Loss of muscle control
• Persistent numbness or tingling
• Changes in speech or vision
• Cognitive changes
• Severe headaches
• Tremors that significantly interfere with daily activities

These symptoms could indicate more serious neurological conditions and require prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Diagnostic Approaches: Unraveling the Cause of Finger Tremors

When finger twitches persist or are accompanied by concerning symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend various diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause.

What diagnostic tests are used to evaluate finger tremors?

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may recommend:

• Blood tests to check for nutrient deficiencies or thyroid issues
• Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle and nerve function
• Nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve health
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to rule out structural abnormalities
• Neurological exams to assess overall nervous system function

These tests can help identify the root cause of your finger twitches and guide appropriate treatment.

Lifestyle Modifications: Natural Ways to Reduce Finger Twitching

While medical interventions may be necessary in some cases, lifestyle modifications can often help reduce the frequency and intensity of finger twitches.

What lifestyle changes can help alleviate finger twitches?

Consider implementing the following strategies:

• Improve sleep hygiene to ensure adequate rest
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in magnesium, vitamin E, and other essential nutrients
• Stay hydrated
• Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Engage in regular, moderate exercise
• Take frequent breaks during repetitive hand activities
• Use ergonomic tools and proper posture when working

These lifestyle changes can not only help reduce finger twitches but also contribute to overall health and well-being.

Alternative Therapies: Exploring Complementary Approaches

While scientific evidence may be limited, some people find relief from finger twitches through alternative therapies.

Can alternative therapies help with finger twitches?

Some alternative approaches that may help manage finger twitches include:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Herbal supplements (under professional guidance)
• Biofeedback
• Tai chi or qigong

It’s important to note that while these therapies may provide relief for some individuals, they should not replace medical treatment for underlying conditions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any alternative therapy, especially if you’re taking medications or have a chronic health condition.

Coping Strategies: Living with Persistent Finger Twitches

For some individuals, finger twitches may persist despite treatment efforts. In these cases, developing effective coping strategies can help manage the impact on daily life.

How can one cope with persistent finger twitches?

Consider the following coping strategies:

• Educate yourself about your condition to reduce anxiety
• Join support groups to connect with others experiencing similar symptoms
• Practice mindfulness to reduce focus on the twitches
• Use adaptive devices for tasks that are challenging due to twitches
• Communicate openly with friends, family, and colleagues about your condition
• Explore hobbies and activities that are less affected by finger twitches
• Consider counseling if the twitches are causing significant emotional distress

Remember that while finger twitches can be frustrating, they often do not signify a serious underlying condition. With proper management and coping strategies, most people can maintain a high quality of life despite persistent twitches.

Future Research: Advancing Our Understanding of Finger Tremors

As medical science progresses, researchers continue to explore new avenues for understanding and treating finger tremors and twitches.

What areas of research hold promise for better tremor treatment?

Exciting areas of ongoing research include:

• Genetic studies to identify hereditary factors in essential tremor
• Advanced neuroimaging techniques to better understand brain activity during tremors
• Development of more targeted medications with fewer side effects
• Refinement of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques
• Investigation of the gut-brain axis and its potential role in movement disorders
• Exploration of neuroprotective strategies to prevent or slow the progression of tremors

These research efforts offer hope for improved diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for individuals affected by finger tremors and twitches.

9 causes and when to see a doctor

A twitch is a small, involuntary contraction and relaxation of a muscle or group of muscles. Medication side effects, physical exertion, fatigue, and excessive caffeine can all cause twitching in the fingers.

People with finger twitching may worry that they are developing a neurological disorder. However, when this twitching does not accompany other symptoms, it is typically not a cause for concern.

In this article, we explore nine causes of finger twitching and their treatments. We also offer advice about when to see a doctor.

Share on PinterestFinger twitching is a side effect of some medications.

Muscle spasms and twitching can be side effects of some medications, including:

• corticosteroids
• isoniazid, an antibiotic
• succinylcholine, a muscle relaxant
• flunarizine, a drug that interrupts the movement of calcium
• topiramate, a drug that helps treat epilepsy
• lithium, a psychiatric medication

If a person thinks that a medication is causing muscle twitching, they should speak with their doctor before stopping the treatment.

The doctor may recommend lowering the dosage or switching to an alternative medication, if possible.

A magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps and tremors. This issue is rare among otherwise healthy people because the kidneys limit the amount of magnesium excreted in urine.

However, certain factors can increase the chances of developing a magnesium deficiency. These include:

• alcohol use disorder
• some other medical conditions
• certain medications

A person with a magnesium deficiency may initially experience:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• fatigue
• weakness

If the deficiency becomes severe, the person may experience additional symptoms, such as:

• numbness
• tingling
• muscle contractions and cramps
• an irregular heartbeat
• coronary spasms
• personality changes
• seizures

A magnesium deficiency may affect other minerals in the body, such as calcium and potassium. Deficiencies in these minerals can cause additional symptoms and complications.

Treatment

A doctor may recommend magnesium supplements. However, anyone who suspects that they have a nutrient deficiency should speak to a doctor before trying a supplement.

In 2011, doctors reported a case of a male in his mid-20s who had a vitamin E deficiency and developed a tremor in his upper limbs and trunk. The man also experienced:

• changes in gait and posture
• difficulty articulating
• a decline in cognition

The medical team concluded that the tremor resulted from the vitamin E deficiency, but noted that this symptom of the deficiency is rare.

Treatment

The treatment for involuntary movements caused by a vitamin E deficiency is a high dosage of oral vitamin E supplements.

Anyone who suspects that they have a nutrient deficiency should consult a doctor, who can recommend the right dosage of supplements.

People with benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS) have widespread involuntary muscle twitches.

Symptoms are usually present for years, and some clinicians only diagnose BFS if the symptoms have existed for at least 5 years.

Doctors do not know what causes BFS. However, one 2013 study found a link between this syndrome and decreased neurological activity in the small nerve fibers in the skin and sweat glands. Confirming this relationship will require more research.

Treatment

BFS does not progress to motor neuron disease and does not require treatment.

Nonetheless, researchers have successfully controlled muscle twitching with the drug gabapentin, which acts on the nervous system.

Also, some doctors have found that certain drugs that treat epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, can reduce muscle twitches.

It is worth noting, however, that using the drugs above to treat twitching constitutes off-label use. “Off-label use” refers to a doctor treating one condition with a drug that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved to treat a different condition.

Essential tremor is the repeated, involuntary movement of a body part. In a person with essential tremor, the movements occur with consistent frequency and force.

Essential tremor is the most common neurological cause of tremors, but doctors do not know what causes the condition.

People usually experience essential tremor in their hands. In some people, the tremor extends to the arms or head, and it can also affect a person’s voice.

Essential tremor does not change a person’s life expectancy. However, it can affect a person’s quality of life and cause disability.

Treatment

Some people seek treatment for essential tremor, and both medical and nonmedical interventions can help.

Regarding medication, doctors will use trial and error to find the most appropriate drug and dosage for each person. The following table lists the first, second, and third lines of treatment for essential tremor.

These drugs have not received FDA approval to treat essential tremor specifically, but some doctors prescribe them for this purpose on an off-label basis.

Also, a person may find that weighing down the affected area helps control their tremor. For example, a weighted wrist band may help with essential tremor in the hand.

Additionally, doctors may recommend relaxation techniques for people whose tremors are worsened by anxiety. They may also recommend avoiding caffeine, as this can increase tremors.

There are four parathyroid glands. They are small, they sit inside the neck, and they produce parathyroid hormone, which helps raise levels of calcium in the blood.

The term “hyperparathyroidism” refers to overactivity of one or more parathyroid glands. This overactivity causes an imbalance in calcium and potassium in the body, which may lead to muscle twitching.

Other symptoms of hyperparathyroidism include:

• muscle aches
• muscle weakness
• joint and bone pain
• digestive problems
• fatigue
• depression
• irritability
• problems with memory and concentration
• kidney problems

Treatment

The only known cure for hyperparathyroidism is surgery to remove the affected parathyroid glands.

Certain drugs, such as bisphosphonates and synthetic estrogen, may decrease calcium or parathyroid hormone levels and improve bone-related symptoms. However, they cannot cure hyperparathyroidism.

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements and vocalizations. Doctors refer to these occurrences as “tics.”

People with Tourette’s syndrome have multiple tics that start during childhood. Movement, or motor, tics are sudden and recurrent. They are usually triggered by an urge and can affect any part of the body.

In order to receive a diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome, a person must experience:

• multiple motor tics and one or more vocal tics throughout the illness, though these may not occur together
• tics that persist for more than 1 year
• symptoms that begin before the age of 18
• symptoms that are unrelated to substances or other medical conditions

Treatment

Doctors usually do not prescribe medication to treat Tourette’s syndrome. However, children tend to respond well to behavioral interventions for tics.

Children with Tourette’s syndrome may have accompanying psychiatric disorders that require appropriate treatment. These may include:

• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD
• obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD
• anxiety disorder
• oppositional defiant disorder, or ODD

Over time, tics can disappear, but symptoms of any psychiatric disorder may persist.

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the brain that usually occurs in adults over 50.

A person with Parkinson’s may experience a tremor. This typically begins on one side of the body and worsens over time.

Some other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

• unstable posture
• difficulty walking
• slow movements

Parkinson’s disease causes a loss of cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This area makes dopamine, a neurochemical that helps control and coordinate body movements.

Treatment

Doctors initially treat Parkinson’s disease with the drug levodopa. This is a synthetic version of an amino acid that the body converts into dopamine.

Taking supplementary levodopa helps control some symptoms of dopamine deficiency.

As the disease progresses, people need additional treatments. Doctors may prescribe the following drugs in addition to levodopa:

• Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors: These help slow the depletion of dopamine and increase the availability of levodopa.
• Drugs that act on acetylcholine receptors: These help reduce muscle twitching and rigidity.

A doctor may also prescribe ropinirole or pramipexole to further activate dopamine receptors in the brain.

ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive motor neuron disease, and its symptoms gradually worsen over time.

In the beginning stages, ALS can cause muscle twitches in the hand or arm. Over time, a person may develop muscle weakness, which can spread to other parts of the body.

Swallowing, speech, and breathing problems can occur as the disease continues to progress.

Some common symptoms of ALS include:

• muscle twitches
• muscle cramps
• muscle tightness and stiffness
• muscle weakness
• slurred, nasal speech
• difficulty chewing or swallowing

Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for ALS. However, certain treatments can help control symptoms, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life.

The FDA have, so far, approved the following medications to treat ALS:

• Riluzole: This drug reduces damage to neurons involved in movement, although it cannot reverse the damage.
• Edaravone: This drug slows a decline in daily functioning.

In young, healthy people, finger twitching is likely a symptom of overexertion. Often, this stems from overuse of cellphones, computers, and video games.

If the twitching continues, with no clear cause, consult a doctor. They will likely perform an examination to rule out a neurological disorder.

If finger twitching affects daily activities or the quality of life, see a doctor. Some causes can be treated with rest or vitamin supplements, while others require further medical intervention.

People who experience finger twitching may worry that they have a neurological disorder. However, there are many relatively harmless causes of this issue, including overexertion, fatigue, and consuming too much caffeine.

If finger twitching results from a neurological diseases, the person will usually experience additional signs and symptoms.

See a doctor if there is no clear cause of finger twitching or if the movements persist or worsen.

9 causes and when to see a doctor

A twitch is a small, involuntary contraction and relaxation of a muscle or group of muscles. Medication side effects, physical exertion, fatigue, and excessive caffeine can all cause twitching in the fingers.

People with finger twitching may worry that they are developing a neurological disorder. However, when this twitching does not accompany other symptoms, it is typically not a cause for concern.

In this article, we explore nine causes of finger twitching and their treatments. We also offer advice about when to see a doctor.

Share on PinterestFinger twitching is a side effect of some medications.

Muscle spasms and twitching can be side effects of some medications, including:

• corticosteroids
• isoniazid, an antibiotic
• succinylcholine, a muscle relaxant
• flunarizine, a drug that interrupts the movement of calcium
• topiramate, a drug that helps treat epilepsy
• lithium, a psychiatric medication

If a person thinks that a medication is causing muscle twitching, they should speak with their doctor before stopping the treatment.

The doctor may recommend lowering the dosage or switching to an alternative medication, if possible.

A magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps and tremors. This issue is rare among otherwise healthy people because the kidneys limit the amount of magnesium excreted in urine.

However, certain factors can increase the chances of developing a magnesium deficiency. These include:

• alcohol use disorder
• some other medical conditions
• certain medications

A person with a magnesium deficiency may initially experience:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• fatigue
• weakness

If the deficiency becomes severe, the person may experience additional symptoms, such as:

• numbness
• tingling
• muscle contractions and cramps
• an irregular heartbeat
• coronary spasms
• personality changes
• seizures

A magnesium deficiency may affect other minerals in the body, such as calcium and potassium. Deficiencies in these minerals can cause additional symptoms and complications.

Treatment

A doctor may recommend magnesium supplements. However, anyone who suspects that they have a nutrient deficiency should speak to a doctor before trying a supplement.

In 2011, doctors reported a case of a male in his mid-20s who had a vitamin E deficiency and developed a tremor in his upper limbs and trunk. The man also experienced:

• changes in gait and posture
• difficulty articulating
• a decline in cognition

The medical team concluded that the tremor resulted from the vitamin E deficiency, but noted that this symptom of the deficiency is rare.

Treatment

The treatment for involuntary movements caused by a vitamin E deficiency is a high dosage of oral vitamin E supplements.

Anyone who suspects that they have a nutrient deficiency should consult a doctor, who can recommend the right dosage of supplements.

People with benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS) have widespread involuntary muscle twitches.

Symptoms are usually present for years, and some clinicians only diagnose BFS if the symptoms have existed for at least 5 years.

Doctors do not know what causes BFS. However, one 2013 study found a link between this syndrome and decreased neurological activity in the small nerve fibers in the skin and sweat glands. Confirming this relationship will require more research.

Treatment

BFS does not progress to motor neuron disease and does not require treatment.

Nonetheless, researchers have successfully controlled muscle twitching with the drug gabapentin, which acts on the nervous system.

Also, some doctors have found that certain drugs that treat epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, can reduce muscle twitches.

It is worth noting, however, that using the drugs above to treat twitching constitutes off-label use. “Off-label use” refers to a doctor treating one condition with a drug that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved to treat a different condition.

Essential tremor is the repeated, involuntary movement of a body part. In a person with essential tremor, the movements occur with consistent frequency and force.

Essential tremor is the most common neurological cause of tremors, but doctors do not know what causes the condition.

People usually experience essential tremor in their hands. In some people, the tremor extends to the arms or head, and it can also affect a person’s voice.

Essential tremor does not change a person’s life expectancy. However, it can affect a person’s quality of life and cause disability.

Treatment

Some people seek treatment for essential tremor, and both medical and nonmedical interventions can help.

Regarding medication, doctors will use trial and error to find the most appropriate drug and dosage for each person. The following table lists the first, second, and third lines of treatment for essential tremor.

These drugs have not received FDA approval to treat essential tremor specifically, but some doctors prescribe them for this purpose on an off-label basis.

Also, a person may find that weighing down the affected area helps control their tremor. For example, a weighted wrist band may help with essential tremor in the hand.

Additionally, doctors may recommend relaxation techniques for people whose tremors are worsened by anxiety. They may also recommend avoiding caffeine, as this can increase tremors.

There are four parathyroid glands. They are small, they sit inside the neck, and they produce parathyroid hormone, which helps raise levels of calcium in the blood.

The term “hyperparathyroidism” refers to overactivity of one or more parathyroid glands. This overactivity causes an imbalance in calcium and potassium in the body, which may lead to muscle twitching.

Other symptoms of hyperparathyroidism include:

• muscle aches
• muscle weakness
• joint and bone pain
• digestive problems
• fatigue
• depression
• irritability
• problems with memory and concentration
• kidney problems

Treatment

The only known cure for hyperparathyroidism is surgery to remove the affected parathyroid glands.

Certain drugs, such as bisphosphonates and synthetic estrogen, may decrease calcium or parathyroid hormone levels and improve bone-related symptoms. However, they cannot cure hyperparathyroidism.

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements and vocalizations. Doctors refer to these occurrences as “tics.”

People with Tourette’s syndrome have multiple tics that start during childhood. Movement, or motor, tics are sudden and recurrent. They are usually triggered by an urge and can affect any part of the body.

In order to receive a diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome, a person must experience:

• multiple motor tics and one or more vocal tics throughout the illness, though these may not occur together
• tics that persist for more than 1 year
• symptoms that begin before the age of 18
• symptoms that are unrelated to substances or other medical conditions

Treatment

Doctors usually do not prescribe medication to treat Tourette’s syndrome. However, children tend to respond well to behavioral interventions for tics.

Children with Tourette’s syndrome may have accompanying psychiatric disorders that require appropriate treatment. These may include:

• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD
• obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD
• anxiety disorder
• oppositional defiant disorder, or ODD

Over time, tics can disappear, but symptoms of any psychiatric disorder may persist.

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the brain that usually occurs in adults over 50.

A person with Parkinson’s may experience a tremor. This typically begins on one side of the body and worsens over time.

Some other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

• unstable posture
• difficulty walking
• slow movements

Parkinson’s disease causes a loss of cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This area makes dopamine, a neurochemical that helps control and coordinate body movements.

Treatment

Doctors initially treat Parkinson’s disease with the drug levodopa. This is a synthetic version of an amino acid that the body converts into dopamine.

Taking supplementary levodopa helps control some symptoms of dopamine deficiency.

As the disease progresses, people need additional treatments. Doctors may prescribe the following drugs in addition to levodopa:

• Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors: These help slow the depletion of dopamine and increase the availability of levodopa.
• Drugs that act on acetylcholine receptors: These help reduce muscle twitching and rigidity.

A doctor may also prescribe ropinirole or pramipexole to further activate dopamine receptors in the brain.

ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive motor neuron disease, and its symptoms gradually worsen over time.

In the beginning stages, ALS can cause muscle twitches in the hand or arm. Over time, a person may develop muscle weakness, which can spread to other parts of the body.

Swallowing, speech, and breathing problems can occur as the disease continues to progress.

Some common symptoms of ALS include:

• muscle twitches
• muscle cramps
• muscle tightness and stiffness
• muscle weakness
• slurred, nasal speech
• difficulty chewing or swallowing

Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for ALS. However, certain treatments can help control symptoms, prevent complications, and improve the quality of life.

The FDA have, so far, approved the following medications to treat ALS:

• Riluzole: This drug reduces damage to neurons involved in movement, although it cannot reverse the damage.
• Edaravone: This drug slows a decline in daily functioning.

In young, healthy people, finger twitching is likely a symptom of overexertion. Often, this stems from overuse of cellphones, computers, and video games.

If the twitching continues, with no clear cause, consult a doctor. They will likely perform an examination to rule out a neurological disorder.

If finger twitching affects daily activities or the quality of life, see a doctor. Some causes can be treated with rest or vitamin supplements, while others require further medical intervention.

People who experience finger twitching may worry that they have a neurological disorder. However, there are many relatively harmless causes of this issue, including overexertion, fatigue, and consuming too much caffeine.

If finger twitching results from a neurological diseases, the person will usually experience additional signs and symptoms.

See a doctor if there is no clear cause of finger twitching or if the movements persist or worsen.

Trembling of fingers, eyelids

Trembling of fingers, eyelids

Endocrinologist nutritionist

“So easy, even a caveman can do it. ”

21.04.2023

Patients: 26,261

FEDOR IVANOVICH INOZEMTSEV

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Periodically appearing trembling affecting the fingers or eyelids, doctors habitually call tremor, subdividing this symptom into two subspecies according to its origin: physiological and pathological. The first one occurs at least once in the life of every person, it can be caused by sudden excitement, severe stress, muscle strain; the second one is evidence of various pathologies and serious disorders inside the human body, a qualified doctor will help to establish them.

Register with a specialist through the website

As a rule, if you experience trembling of the fingers, eyelids, it is recommended to visit a neurologist, since most of the underlying causes are within his competence, but in about a third of cases this specialist can redirect you to a narrower doctor – an endocrinologist. If, due to such symptoms, you were prescribed to visit an endocrinologist, it is most convenient to do this at the Practical Medicine Medical Center in Yuzhnoye Butovo, where one of the leading endocrinologists of the capital sees you.

Causes of tremor

In order to prescribe a competent, balanced treatment of tremor, at the first stage of diagnosis, it is necessary to determine the cause of such an organism’s reaction with the maximum degree of probability. Among the most common:

1. Hypothermia in winter.
2. Strong irritating emotional factors – stress, anger, excitement, fear.
3. Entry into the body of poisons, toxins of various origins (poisoning) – alcohol, drugs or chemicals.
4. Painful narcotic hangover, in the common people called brittle.
5. Hypoglycemic coma occurring in diabetic patients.
6. Violation of the normal functioning of the thyroid gland.
7. Strong physical or psycho-emotional overstrain.
8. Parkinson’s disease.
9. Hereditary ailments, including essential tremor, accompanied by spontaneous trembling of the muscles at rest.
10. Possible brain injuries and pathological diseases – malignant and benign tumors, abscesses, etc.
11. Changes in the hormonal background in children when they are in adolescence, accompanied, for example, by exams, their consequence is an increased nervous load.

Observing one or more of these factors in yourself, do not rush to engage in self-diagnosis and, moreover, self-treatment. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis, which you should visit as soon as possible!

Diagnosis and treatment

During the initial examination, the first thing the doctor will do is to observe the nature and amplitude of muscle contractions: where they occur initially, whether they are symmetrical, what other deviations are accompanied. The nature of the movements, their intensity and type (left-right, up-down, sweeping, chaotic, etc. ) will allow the doctor to identify the root causes, prescribe additional tests, examinations, and refer to a more specialized specialist.

Treatment varies from case to case, but there are a number of principles that are common to all manifestations of tremor:

1. Emotional stabilization – try to remain calm.
2. Do breathing exercises – it calms, plus relaxes the muscles.
3. To restore the psycho-emotional background, relaxing baths with essential oils, taking herbal teas, decoctions will help.
4. Do what you have long dreamed of – sports (preferably yoga or swimming), learn to embroider, sculpt, knit – this way you will be able to reduce spontaneous trembling of hands and eyelids.
5. Eliminate foods containing caffeine, including tea, if you smoke or drink, stop immediately.

These, including a number of other tips, will certainly be given to you by our endocrinologist – Taller Nikita Aleksandrovich, he perfectly knows the intricacies of the work of the endocrine system of the body, not only from a theoretical point of view, but also from a practical one. The doctor conducts a stationary reception within the walls of the clinic.

To get an appointment with him is a great success, because, knowing about the professional qualities of a doctor, many people strive to do this. Patients of “Practical Medicine” have more chances, do not miss them, and then no trembling, even temporary, will be terrible!

Specialists

S P.M. 2012
Taller N.A.

Endocrinologist nutritionist

Make an appointment

masters of the First
impressions:

Irina Vladimirovna
Irina Alekseevna
8 (495) 201-79-09
8 (495) 717-79-09

“So easy, even a caveman can do it.”

Rooms

and specializations

1

neurologist, massage, chiropractor, endocrinologist

• Neurologist
• Massage
• Chiropractor
• Endocrinologist

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2

gynecologist, urologist, mammologist, proctologist

• Gynecologist / Obstetrics
• Gynecologist-endocrinologist
• Aesthetic Gynecologist
• Gynecologist-fillingologist
• Pediatric gynecologist
• Urologist
• Pediatric urologist
• Mammologist
• Proctologist

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3

gastroenterologist, gastroscopy

• Gastroscopy
• Gastroenterologist

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6

cardiologist

• Cardiologist

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5

ENT (otolaryngologist)

• ENT (otolaryngologist)
• Pediatric ENT

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4

ultrasound, EEG

• Ultrasound
• Pediatric ultrasound
• EEG

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and we have an answer!
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8 (495) 717-79-09

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What is Parkinson’s disease? Part 2

Parkinson’s disease is the most common cause of parkinsonism syndrome, accounting for up to 80% of its cases. At the age of over 75, at least 2% of people suffer from it.

Parkinson’s disease most often manifests itself after the age of 50, but cases of the onset of the disease are not uncommon at an earlier age. Men get sick slightly more often than women.

How does Parkinson’s disease manifest itself clinically?

In Parkinson’s disease, there are motor (“motor”) and “non-motor” disorders.

What are “motor” disorders?

Symptoms of the disease develop gradually. Trembling, stiffness or awkwardness in one of the limbs usually appear first, less often the disease initially manifests itself as a change in gait or general stiffness.

At the onset of the disease, attention is often drawn to pain and tension in the muscles of the limbs or back (one of the frequent misdiagnosis in patients with initial manifestations of Parkinson’s disease is humeroscapular periarthritis)

Initially, symptoms occur only on one side of the body, but gradually become bilateral over time. Movements become more and more slowed down, facial expressions are weakened. Because of the rare blinking, the look seems piercing, prickly.

Friendly movements disappear (for example, hand movements when walking).

Fine finger movements are difficult (for example, when fastening buttons, threading a needle). Handwriting becomes smaller and less legible.

It is increasingly difficult for the patient to change position, for example, to get up from a chair or turn in bed from side to side.

The gait changes: the steps become shorter, shuffling. On the affected side, the patient is forced to drag his leg.

Due to the predominance of the tone of the flexor muscles, the head and torso of the patients lean forward, the arms are bent at the elbows and pressed against the body, the legs are bent at the knees (“the petitioner’s position”).

Speech becomes muffled and monotonous.

Trembling (tremor) usually occurs at rest, for example, in a hand lying quietly on a knee, or a leg when the patient is sitting and not leaning on it. The movements of the thumb and forefinger are reminiscent of “rolling pills” or “counting coins.”

In addition to the extremities, trembling often involves the lower jaw and lips, but rarely the entire head.

Trembling depends both on the emotional state of the patient and on his movements. For example, a tremor in the arm decreases or disappears during its movement, but increases with the movements of the other arm or legs (including walking).

The condition may fluctuate during the day or from day to day, depending on psycho-emotional, and possibly weather factors. Feelings of anxiety, trembling, stiffness can be intensified when you are in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by strangers. And vice versa, when you stay with your family, among good friends, if you have the opportunity to do what you love, physical activity is greatly facilitated.

According to the famous literary critic and master of fiction I. L. Andronnikov, known for his oral stories and also suffering from Parkinson’s disease, his symptoms suddenly decreased as soon as he went on stage.