Head and hand jerks or shakes can definitely be related to MS — these are known as tremors, and they're actually quite common, affecting between 25% and 58% of people with MS.
Two types of tremors are most common in MS:
- Intention tremor — gets worse when you're moving purposefully, like reaching for something
- Postural Show Full Answer
Head and hand jerks or shakes can definitely be related to MS — these are known as tremors, and they're actually quite common, affecting between 25% and 58% of people with MS.
Two types of tremors are most common in MS:
- Intention tremor — gets worse when you're moving purposefully, like reaching for something
- Postural tremor — occurs when holding a position
Tremors in MS are usually not severe, but they can make daily tasks like getting dressed or eating more challenging. As for whether this is a relapse — that's a great question to bring to your neurologist. A true relapse typically involves new or worsening symptoms lasting more than 24 hours, occurring at least 30 days after a previous flare-up.
If the jerks/shakes come and go within a day, it could be a pseudo-relapse, which can be triggered by things like:
- Overheating
- Fatigue or stress
- Infection
Pseudo-relapses don't cause permanent damage and usually resolve once the trigger is addressed.
Since you've been living with MS since at least 2012, your neurologist knows your history well — it's worth reaching out to them to discuss these symptoms and whether any changes to your care plan are needed.
September 6
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