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Hi Sallie – I live on the West Coast. If my mother had ET I wasn’t aware of it, she never complained of it, and I never noticed her hands shaking. What I’ve been experiencing started in my left hand, and was most noticeable when I played the harp. Now both shake, but not all the time, but very noticeable when I reach for something. I often now have to steady my right hand with my left when lifting a cup with liquid in it. I’m really encouraged to hear the propranolol helps this problem! One question I have is related to the medication. If it slows your brain, does it affect memory, muscle response, or timing when playing the harp?
Hello Sallie – yes, thank you for responding, I have seen my family doctor, a GP, who said this is indeed a neurological problem, and he has referred me to a neurologist for final diagnosis and treatment. I have a bit of a wait before my appointment, unfortunately.
My doctor did say there are two or three conditions that can cause the symptoms I am having, and he indicated he suspects ET, rather than Parkinson’s. I am encouraged that a prescription of Inderol will help, as the flailing/tremors are getting worse. I wish I had known about the medication before seeing my doctor as I would have asked him if he would prescribe it in the interim until I see the neurologist. Have you had the condition long, and did it get progressively worse?
Thank you, Elizabeth, you were correct, it is neurological. Just knowing that has given me some peace of mind, as I now know what to expect. I am still harping, and will continue as long as I am able :). Thank you for encouraging me to go to a physician, and for your concern. Ann
Thank you very much, Elizabeth. I truly hadn’t noticed, probably because it is my left hand (and I am right handed). But yes, the trembling/shaking is most definitely there in those fingers when I extend my hand to reach for something, or pick something up. So I will make an appointment to see my doctor. BTW, I have had two performances since I posted, and had the same problem both times. Thankfully, I was able to complete each action and connect with the strings, but I had to firmly close, squeeze my hand, and remain closed before forming my next chord, to try and control the shaking, which meant my hand was not at all relaxed when playing, and I am sure this was very obvious to others. Whatever the problem is, it is getting worse, and occurs a lot of the time now when I play, whether at home alone, or playing with or for others. It is so aggravating.
