green_sunNeurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring chemicals within the brain that relay signals between the nerve cells and are required for proper brain and body function. A proper balance of neurotransmitter levels helps achieve optimal health. Neurotransmitter imbalances have been linked to:

  • Attention issues (lack of focus and motivation, poor concentration, and ADD)
  • Learning difficulties and development delays (young children)
  • yperactivity and ADHD for both children and adults
  • Sleeping problems (fatigue, problems falling asleep, tossing and turning, etc.)
  • Menopause related issues (hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats)
  • PMS and mood changes from oral contraception (mood swings, aggressiveness, irritability, sadness, lack of libido)
  • Weight issues and appetite control (cravings, overwhelming hunger, etc.)
  • Depression (sadness, lack of motivation, mood swings, etc.)
  • Migraine headaches
  • Anxiety (irritability, nervous, obsessive-compulsive, insecurity, racing thoughts, restlessness)
  • Libido (lack of sex drive for women and men, orgasm issues, erectile dysfunction, etc

Causes of Neurotransmitter Imbalances

Neurotransmitter-related disorders occur when the current levels of neurotransmitters are unable to properly relay the electrical signal from one nerve cell (neuron) to the next. A neurotransmitter imbalance can result from the levels being either too high or too low.

Low neurotransmitters levels: If neurotransmitters are low, the nerves fire ineffectively or not at all.

Low neurotransmitter levels can result from prolonged stress, genetic predisposition, and diets low in the amino acids from which neurotransmitters are made. Toxic substances like heavy metals, pesticides, illicit and some prescription drugs can cause permanent damage to the nerves that make neurotransmitters.

High neurotransmitters levels: If the levels of neurotransmitters are too high, nerves may fire inappropriately.

Neurotransmitters exist in a delicate balance with one another. If the levels of one neurotransmitter become too low, the balance can shift and other neurotransmitter levels can become too high.

Our clinic proudly utilizes the NeuroScience Company for neurotransmitter testing and nutritional support. You can follow the links below to the NeuroScience Inc. website for more informtion on neurotranmitter involved conditions:

  • Stress
  • Low Mood or mood swings
  • Anxious, irritability, agitation, tension, panic attacks
  • Difficulty concentrating, focusing or remembering
  • Sleep disturbances, sleep difficulties
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue, lack of energy

Testing 

How does the testing process work?

The neurotransmitter testing that we use at our clinic are actually done by the patient while they are at home. Neurotransmitter are tested via the urine and usually collected 1-2 hours you awake in the morning. Insomnia cases will test at times of their sleep disturbance.

Does insurance cover the tests?

The following insurance companies can be directly billed: Blue Cross Blue Shield and Mutual of Omaha. Payment still must be made in case of a claim denial or deductible fee. If you have an insurance company not listed above, you can receive an insurance receipt to submit for reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurance company for prior approval.