Dear Alice,

Essential tremor is a familial tremor that acts very much like the one your writer describes. Seeing a neurologist will confirm the diagnosis of ET, but the Essential Tremor Foundation website is also full of helpful information. I was mistaken for years that I thought I had anxiety, needed counseling, etc. But after my MD sent me to my neurologist, and I was properly diagnosed, it was recognized as essential tremor, and I have good medication. Please understand that one inherits the tremor — it's not your fault. It is especially active during intimate times when you are trying to lie still or use your hands (effort-related tremor). Good luck!

Signed,
used to be shaky, but now happily steady with help of medication :-)))