Blog — Neurodevelopmental disorders

  The human body is a complex and interconnected system, and nowhere is this more evident than in the intricate dance between our physical health and mental well-being. At the heart of this connection lies a network of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters, playing a crucial role in transmitting signals between nerve cells. Understanding the levels of these neurotransmitters can be pivotal in unravelling the mysteries of various mental health conditions and shedding light on the intricate balance of our biochemistry. The Neurotransmitter Test: Peering Into the Mind's Chemistry Enter the neurotransmitter test, a cutting-edge screening tool designed to provide...

A complex interplay of neurochemical signals takes centre stage when it comes to stress and the body's response to it. Translating events into neurochemical signals is crucial before triggering the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which plays a pivotal role in the body's stress response. In this blog post, we'll explore the intricate connections between neurotransmitters, stress, and HPA axis dysfunction, shedding light on clinicians' challenges when evaluating patients. The Prevalence of Anxiety & Depression: Anxiety disorders and major depressive disorder (MDD) are pervasive mental health challenges affecting millions. Abnormal neurotransmitter levels, ratios, or activities are often associated with these disorders, leading...

  In the whirlwind of our daily lives, we often focus on physical fitness, but what about mental fitness? Just as we exercise our bodies to keep fit and strong, our mental well-being demands attention and care. A crucial aspect of this is managing stress, a common yet impactful adversary. Imagine stress as an internal alarm triggered by a minuscule part of our brain—the hypothalamus. When it activates, the body releases stress hormones, gearing us up to confront perceived danger. This stress response, a survival mechanism ingrained in us, can be immensely helpful. It heightens our senses, primes us for...

In the complex orchestra of bodily functions, neurotransmitters play a crucial role as messengers that facilitate communication within our nervous system. These chemical compounds transmit signals between nerve cells, affecting various aspects of our health, mood, and behaviour. The delicate balance of neurotransmitters is essential for optimal physical and mental well-being. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to a range of health issues, from anxiety and depression to sleep disturbances and hormonal imbalances. The Role of Neurotransmitters Imagine neurotransmitters as messengers constantly shuttling information between nerves, enabling your body to react and respond to everything you encounter—sounds, sensations,...

  By Dr. Tracy Tranchitella, ZRT Laboratory. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) stands as the most prevalent neurodevelopmental condition among children. Nevertheless, boys receive diagnoses at a rate of two to nine times higher than girls (1). While girls do experience ADHD, it frequently evades detection due to its distinct presentation compared to boys. Typically, girls exhibit quietness and inattentiveness, whereas boys commonly display hyperactivity and disruptiveness. The symptoms of ADHD in children may manifest as inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a combination thereof, although these symptoms might also vary or evolve over time. The presentation of ADHD in girls is typically...