Are You Experiencing Tremors or Worried About Parkinson’s Disease?
Tremors and Parkinson’s Disease can cause uncontrollable shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. If you’ve noticed these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, Mississippi Neurological Institute in Jackson, MS offers advanced diagnostic testing and treatment to help you regain control and improve your quality of life.
Our clinic can distinguish between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease with 95% accuracy, ensuring you get the right diagnosis and the right care.
Understanding Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease
What is Essential Tremor?
Essential Tremor is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary shaking, most often in the hands and arms during movement. It can also affect the head, voice, and other parts of the body. Tremors usually worsen with movement and stress but improve at rest.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological condition caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. It often leads to resting tremors, slowed movement (bradykinesia), muscle rigidity, and balance problems. Over time, Parkinson’s can also affect speech, facial expressions, and cognitive function.
Symptoms of Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease
Essential Tremor
- Shaking that worsens with movement (action tremor)
- Typically affects both hands, but may be more severe on one side
- Head nodding or voice tremor
- No other movement symptoms (like stiffness or slowness)
Parkinson’s Disease
- Tremor usually occurs at rest
- Muscle stiffness and rigidity
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
- Difficulty with balance and coordination
- Small, cramped handwriting
- Soft or slurred speech
- Facial masking (reduced facial expression)
How We Diagnose Essential Tremor vs. Parkinson’s Disease
At Mississippi Neurological Institute, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine whether a patient has Essential Tremor or Parkinson’s Disease. In most cases:
- We perform a clinical neurological examination to assess motor function, tremor type, and other symptoms.
- DATscan imaging is often recommended. A DATscan allows us to visualize dopamine transporter levels in the brain and confirm Parkinson’s Disease with high accuracy.
We can diagnose the difference between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease with 95% accuracy, ensuring confidence in your care plan.
Treatment Options
For Essential Tremor
- Lifestyle recommendations including reducing caffeine, stress management, and occupational therapy
- Referral for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in severe cases
For Parkinson’s Disease
- Physical therapy to maintain flexibility, balance, and mobility
- Occupational therapy to help with daily activities
- Speech therapy to address voice and swallowing issues
- Lifestyle counseling, including exercise and nutrition support
- Referral for deep brain stimulation (DBS) for patients who are good candidates
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease or Essential Tremor allows for earlier treatment, helping to slow progression and manage symptoms. At Mississippi Neurological Institute, we work closely with each patient to create a personalized care plan that supports long-term health and independence.
Why Choose Mississippi Neurological Institute?
- Board-certified neurologist experienced in movement disorders
- Advanced diagnostic testing, including DATscan imaging
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each diagnosis
- Comprehensive care for Parkinson’s Disease and Essential Tremor
- Convenient Jackson, MS location serving patients across Mississippi
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing tremors, stiffness, or movement problems, Mississippi Neurological Institute can help. Call 601-345-4525 today. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment start here.