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What Are the Risks of Low Dopamine Levels?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Low dopamine levels can contribute to a number of health issues, including depression, weight gain, and loss of motor control. A biological deficiency in this chemical has been linked to disease processes such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, and Parkinson's disease. Some studies have suggested that a person with lower than normal dopamine levels may be at an increased risk of developing additions to drugs or alcohol.

Depression is one of the most common problems associated with low dopamine levels. Fatigue, a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and an inability to focus are common symptoms of depression. Drug and alcohol addiction sometimes develops as a coping mechanism for depression as the affected person searches for ways to feel better, even if only for a short period of time. The weight gain associated with low dopamine levels may be related to emotional eating in many cases.

Low dopamine levels may cause depression.
Low dopamine levels may cause depression.

Mobility issues caused by a loss of motor control may develop as a result of low dopamine levels. Specific symptoms may include difficulty walking, maintaining balance, and stiff arms and legs. Problems with fine motor skills may make it difficult for a person with this condition to hold a fork, button a shirt, or write a letter.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is often linked to low dopamine levels. In addition to severe fatigue, symptoms of this disorder may include muscle and joint pain, sore throat, and difficulty focusing or concentrating. A person with this condition can often sleep for hours but awaken feeling like she hasn't slept at all.

Low dopamine levels may cause weight gain.
Low dopamine levels may cause weight gain.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, more commonly referred to as ADHD, may be caused or worsened by decreased levels of dopamine in some cases. Lowered levels of dopamine can cause trouble with concentration and may contribute to the development of ADHD. In other situations, the lack of this chemical may worsen the symptoms of attention disorders. Children and adolescents are more prone to developing ADHD, although it is sometimes seen in adults as well.

Chronic fatigue may be the result of low dopamine levels.
Chronic fatigue may be the result of low dopamine levels.

Parkinson's disease is characterized by tremors and muscle rigidity and is thought to be connected to low dopamine levels. Additional symptoms of this disease may include movement disorders, difficulty swallowing, and cognitive issues. When a dopamine deficiency is suspected, a doctor should be consulted for an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan based on the specific needs of the patient.

Discussion Comments

anon335595

It's high levels of dopamine that cause psychosis.

literally45

Let's not forget that low dopamine levels can only be confirmed with diagnostic testing. These days, I keep hearing people say that they must have low dopamine when they feel depressed or nervous.

It's true that low dopamine levels carries risks and can contribute to bad mood, difficulty concentrating, anxiety and lack of motivation. But this doesn't mean that low dopamine is the only cause. Some people even take supplements claiming to balance dopamine levels without getting their dopamine levels checked out first!

There are many chemicals released by our brain and they all interact in unique ways. We can't possible link a condition with only one of these chemicals like dopamine.

ysmina

@ZipLine-- I don't think so. I've never heard of anything like that before. In fact, there is a theory that high dopamine may have something to do with schizophrenia but even that is not proven. Schizophrenia seems to do with genetics more than anything.

It is true that low dopamine levels can lead to anxiety, depression, withdrawal and other issues. But I don't think it can lead to psychosis.

ZipLine

Does low dopamine increase the risk of schizophrenia?

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    • Low dopamine levels may cause depression.
      By: gemenacom
      Low dopamine levels may cause depression.
    • Low dopamine levels may cause weight gain.
      By: javy
      Low dopamine levels may cause weight gain.
    • Chronic fatigue may be the result of low dopamine levels.
      By: Halfpoint
      Chronic fatigue may be the result of low dopamine levels.
    • Low dopamine levels may affect mobility issues caused by a loss of motor control.
      By: Robert Hoetink
      Low dopamine levels may affect mobility issues caused by a loss of motor control.