How To Help With Leg Tremors In The Elderly
What are leg tremors?
- Essential tremor
- Parkinson’s disease
- Orthostatic tremor
Types of tremors in the elderly
- Essential tremors
The most common forms of tremors. They affect the hands, but most times, it can also affect the legs, tongue, voice, trunk, and head.
- Parkinsonian tremors
Individuals suffering from Parkinson’s disease suffer from such a tremor.
- Cerebellar tremors
Also known as intention tremors. They occur due to stroke, damage to the cerebellar, or alcohol abuse. Cerebellar tremors can affect any part of the body.
- Dystonic tremors
Are tremors that occur in individuals suffering from dystonia.
- Orthostatic tremors
These affect the legs and trunk and occur when an individual stands up quick after a long time. These type of tremors are difficult to diagnose due to the lack of other signs and symptoms.
- Psychogenic tremors
They occur suddenly and can affect any part of the body. A tremor of such type is a mixture of 2–3 other types of tremors such as postural, action and resting tremors.
- Physiologic tremors
Experienced by most individuals and are visible to the eye. They occur due to fatigue, emotional outburst, anger, or a withdrawal symptom.
Causes of leg tremors in the elderly
- Diseases affecting the central nervous system, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Several medications like lithium, anti-seizure, and antidepressants.
- Leg tremors can pass on from one generation to another.
- Problem with the thyroid gland.
Risk factors for leg tremors
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Cigarette smoking
Steps to cope with the problem of leg tremors in the elderly
- Herbal teas
These act as very good relaxants and relieve anxiety. Some types of herbal teas are lavender, chamomile, and thyme. Consuming this tea on a regular basis brings down the stress levels. And ultimately helps in keeping the tremors under control.
- Say goodbye to coffee
Coffee and caffeinated beverages can trigger leg tremors. It is, therefore, necessary to avoid all kinds of drinks and desserts that contain coffee in them.
- Avoid smoking
Smoking tobacco can worsen the existing condition of leg tremors. It is, therefore, necessary to convince your elderly parents to stop smoking if they are in the habit of it.
- Avoid over the counter medications
Certain over the counter medications, meant for allergies, depression, and asthma. Can worsen leg tremors. Always consult a doctor before offering any medicine to your elderly loved ones.
- Follow a healthy diet
A diet that is rich in vitamins, low in refined sugars and simple carbohydrates can help tremors. B vitamins are essentially known to treat neurological conditions. This is the basis for the onset of leg tremors. Practice yoga and other stress relieving techniques. Yoga is a powerful stress buster. And practicing it can do wonders in decreasing the anxiety and stress levels.
- Practice yoga and other stress relieving techniques
Yoga is a powerful stress buster. And practicing it can do wonders in decreasing the anxiety and stress levels.
Treatment of tremor
Conclusion
