The Orthostatic Tremor Forum (archive)

Hi,


I am a Pub Landlord, and consequently, I do have about 5 pints of bitter per night, although a very rarely get drunk.

Although I have had leg trmors for about 4 to 5 years, I only went to seek medical help 2 years ago. I visited my doctor again today, but once again, although I have cut down on my drinking, he still blames the tremors on alcohol.

I am alright if I am sat down, or walking, but I have problems standing still after a few minutes, especially when in a queue. The tremors get worse when I am stressed, such as confronting a customer who is drunk, and asking them to leave. I also have a lot of problems when trying to pour a pint, as the tremors spread to the rest of my body. It has got so bad now, that I am having to retire from the pub trade.

My daughter is getting married in June 2006, and I would love to give her hand away in marriage without looking stupid in front of the alter.

I would be glad of any advise, especially in convincing my doctor that my problem is not just the DT's from too much drink.

Cheers

Hi

Welcome to the OT site.

I can really relate to your problem about convincing your doctor that there is more to this than too much alcohol! I rarely drink (not very good for your trade I'm afraid!), but my doctor was convinced that anxiety was the cause of my tremor - and it took quite a lot to persuade him otherwise. However, I don't altogether blame him, as generally it seems that GPs just don't know about OT, so are unable to diagnose it!

When I discovered this site and realised that everything described was just what I was experiencing, I copied Gloria's description of OT (just a couple of paragraphs) and took it along to my doctor. He was then a lot more understanding, immediately prescribed Gabapentin, and booked me an appointment with a neurologist who later confirmed the diagnosis.
It's worth a try.

Your description of your tremor, by the way, sounds to me very typical of OT. I would relate to all of your symptoms - and that's without alcohol! I find that when I'm standing, the tremor does spread to the rest of my body, which makes pouring or carrying drinks etc quite difficult. And the tremor is definitely worse in stressful situations.

Anyway I hope you succeed in finding an answer - and convincing your doctor to look a bit further.

All the best

Lynda

PS I too have my son's wedding coming up next year. I'm already working out strategies of how to cope with the day - and enjoy it!

Thanks Linda,

I really appreciate your support. I will try and do the same by taking a copy to my doctor. Wish me luck!

Cheers, Jeff

Dear Jeff:

I too wish to welcome you to the site. I must tell you sadly that I have heard many times from OT patients who were first given the “ alcohol diagnosis”. Also, Lynda’s response was excellent, please take her advice! I agree you sound like you have the classic OT symptoms but you need to get a confirming diagnosis as soon as possible so you have the answer for the incredulous world that we live in. Having “a name” will help you cope much easier. I can assure you the OT community of friends are wishing you luck. Please stay in touch,

Your OT partner, Gloria