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NEUROTRANSMITTER EVALUATION

What are neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers used by the nervous system to relay information from one nerve to another. Optimal neurotransmitter balance is required to maintain proper health. Imbalances can cause the brain and the body to be over- or under-stimulated, producing neurological or psychological symptoms. Studies show that up to 86% of Americans have suboptimal neurotransmitter levels.

Genetics, environment, chemicals and nutritional deficiencies are a few factors that can impact neurotransmitter production. Once out of balance, the nervous system compensates which, in time, can lead to neurological or psychological symptoms.

Some of the more common psychological conditions today are known to be accompanied by neurotransmitter imbalances. However, it’s also possible for individuals to present with similar symptoms yet have unique foundational imbalances. Testing neurotransmitter levels and their metabolites helps clarify these root issues.

Common neurotransmitter-related causes of health issues often involve the following scenarios:

  • Anxiety & Depression

    • Neurotransmitter imbalances are often associated with anxiety and depression, specifically Glutamate (panic attacks), PEA, Histamine, Serotonin, as well as Epinephrine, and Norepinephrine. 

  • Chronic Fatigue 

    • An imbalance between the excitatory neurotransmitters Epinephrine, Norepinephrine and Glutamate and the inhibitory neurotransmitters Serotonin & GABA can lead to persistent fatigue.

  • Impulsivity

    • GABA, Dopamine and Serotonin are three chemical messengers commonly linked to disorders like ADD, ADHD, and OCD.

  • Insomnia

    • Imbalances in Glutamate, Histamine, Dopamine, GABA, and Serotonin are often linked to sleep disturbances and insomnia.

  • Premenstrual Syndrome

    • Imbalances in Serotonin, Dopamine, Norepinephrine and GABA are often involved in cases of PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder) and severe PMS.

  • Chronic Pain

    • Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter which plays an important role in the sensation of pain.

How is neurotransmitter imbalance treated?

Depending on the type and level of imbalance, corrective therapies include dietary changes, supplements, medications, exercise, and meditation. 

Why test both hormones with neurotransmitters?

In the neurological system, hormones are synergistic with neurotransmitters—modulating their production, signaling and metabolism. Because of this complex interplay, testing hormones and neurotransmitters together is an ideal way to generate a more precise clinical assessment.

This combined testing gives practitioners a diagnostic edge over the traditional psychological inventory and offers the advantage of zeroing in on which therapies are best suited for individual patients—cutting down on the time-consuming process of trial-and-error in identifying treatment options.

Learn more about bio-identical hormone replace the testing by clicking here

How much does Neurotransmitter Evaluation Cost?

How do I get started? 

Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Albright at Elysian Beauty and Wellness. She will take the time to learn about you, your medical history, and your symptoms to determine a comprehensive and personalized approach to testing and supportive medical care.