Pediatric Tremors
Pediatric tremor disorders cause involuntary, rhythmic shaking muscle movements.
What is Pediatric Tremors?
Tremors are a rhythmic shaking that typically take place in the arms, feet, hands, head or legs. They can occur while a child is resting or active.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Tremors?
- Difficulty walking or fine motor issues (pinching, winking and other small movements)
- Involuntary, rhythmic shaking of any body part or the voice
- Limb weakness
- Speech impairment
How is Pediatric Tremors diagnosed?
Your doctor may order one of these tests to diagnose pediatric tremors:
- Blood tests
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) (detects electrical activity in the brain)
- Genetic tests
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (imaging test that produces a detailed, 3-D image of the body using a magnetic field)
What are the causes of Pediatric Tremors?
Tremors can occur at any age and be due to several possible triggers, including:
- Damage to brain structures that control muscle activity
- Genetics
- Head trauma
- Heavy metal poisoning (such as lead or mercury)
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Multiple sclerosis
- Overactive thyroid (hormone gland that controls metabolism)
- Side effect of medicine
- Stroke
How is Pediatric Tremors treated?
Medication is often prescribed to treat pediatric tremors. If that is ineffective, your doctor may recommend deep brain stimulation. With DBS therapy, surgeons implant a small device under the skin in the chest called a neurostimulator. It sends impulses to electrodes placed in the parts of the brain responsible for involuntary movements to help control them.
Pediatric Tremors Doctors and Providers
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Michael Dowling, MD Pediatric Neurologist -
Saima Kayani, MD Pediatric Neurologist -
Eric Remster, MD Pediatric Neurologist -
Lauren Sanchez, MD Pediatric Neurologist -
Cynthia Wang, MD Pediatric Neurologist -
Jeff Waugh, MD Pediatric Neurologist