Neurotransmitters, chemicals in our brains that act as messengers between brain cells, are responsible for most of what goes on in our bodies. They normalize our behavior, our emotions, our capability to gain knowledge, and the manner we sleep. When these chemicals are not present in the appropriate balance, it can affect everything from our energy levels to our ability to focus to how we feel.

Studies have shown that neurotransmitters have a great influence on our temper, and insufficient levels of certain neurotransmitters have been identified in patients with emotional disorders and mental disease.

* What, exactly, are neurotransmitters, and how do they work?

Our brain contains specialized nerve cells, called neurons, which are responsible for receiving info, processing it, and transmitting it to other cells. Neurons are not in straight contact with one another; in order for neurons to pass messages to each other, they depend on highly specialized chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitters are made out of amino acids, which come from proteins – you will see why this is principal further on. The neurotransmitters essentially join the “gaps” (called synapses) between neurons to relay their messages. When these neurotransmitters are at insufficient levels, significant info may not be passed along acceptably.

Some of the principal neurotransmitters that influence our moods are described here.

- Acetylcholine -regulates deliberate movement, sleep, memory, and learning. Too much acetylcholine is
present with depression, and too little is present in patients with dementia.

- Serotonin – helps to normalize appetite, sleep, spontaneous behavior, aggression, and temper. Too little serotonin is
present in cases of depression and anxiety disorder, in particular obsessive-compulsive disorder.

- Dopamine – helps to control learning, concentration and movement. Extreme levels of dopamine are present in
patients with schizophrenia; too little dopamine is linked with depression, as well as the tremors
exhibited by patients with Parkinson’s illness.

- Epinephrine (adrenaline) – this neurotransmitter controls glucose metabolism and energy levels; small levels
are linked to depression.

- Norepinephrine (noradrenalin) – helps to normalize appetite and attentiveness; low levels are found in patients with
depression, at the same time as too much norepinephrine has been found in patients with schizophrenia.

- GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid) – GABA is known to slow down nervousness and excitation. Too little GABA is
associated with anxiety disorders.

- Endorphins – These are the “happy” neurotransmitters that promote feelings of satisfaction and pleasure;
they are in addition involved in ache relief.

* What conditions are caused by neurotransmitter imbalance?

Low levels of neurotransmitters are known to cause many emotional and physiological disorders:

- Depression;
- ADD/ADHD;
- Anxiety disorder, including panic attacks in addition to obsessive-compulsive disorder;
- Fibromyalgia/chronic pain disorders;
- Consumption disorders;
- Sleep disorders (insomnia);
- Obesity;
- Migraines;
- Premenstrual syndrome and PMDS;
- Adrenal dysfunction;
- Psychosis.

* What causes neurotransmitter imbalance?

Neurotransmitter imbalance can be caused by extreme levels of pressure. Diet as well plays a significant part in maintaining neurotransmitter levels. The formation of neurotransmitters requires sufficient levels of dietary protein, plus certain vitamins and minerals. Medications, drugs and alcohol, hormone imbalances, genetics, and serious metal toxicity can all play a role in neurotransmitter lessening, as well.

* Neurotransmitter Testing

In general, treatment for any of the disorders described here involves medication, which is prescribed to treat the symptoms devoid of any actual evidence of what is causing the condition. In lots of cases, several different medications are tried before coming across one that works.

Neurotransmitter testing provides a simple tool for determining the precise cause of the symptoms by pinpointing accurately which neurotransmitters are in imbalance.

Neurotransmitter testing enables medical professionals to guide treatment toward the cause of the condition, rather than tossing medications at it until one of them ultimately works. In numerous cases, therapeutic drugs may not be essential at all. Changes in dietary and lifestyle habits and the use of natural remedies and neurotransmitter supplements can fix neurotransmitter imbalances not including the use of prescription medications that may have negative side effects.

Testing for neurotransmitter imbalances comprises taking a simple blood or urine sample. Neurotransmitter tests are covered by the largest part of insurance plans, making them easily inexpensive. By identifying the neurotransmitter imbalance that is causing your health issues, you can make certain that you are receiving the right cure and that you will begin to feel better as soon as possible.

Visit us and find out more about how Dopamine Levels and Serotonin Levels influence the human’s condition. You will also find here a lot of useful information about Neurotransmitter Tests. Click now!