Numerous conditions can cause a dopamine deficiency. According to the University of Texas at Austin, dopamine -- an important neurotransmitter in the brain -- is important for a person's mental and physical health. Neurons containing dopamine are located in the mid-brain, in an area called the substantia nigra. Certain medical conditions can cause dopamine levels to decrease, leading to significant neurological impairment and other symptoms.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is caused by or associated with decreased levels of dopamine in the brain. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, or NINDS, Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions, known as motor system disorders, that cause the loss of dopamine-generating brain cells. Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder, which means that it gets worse over time. A barely observable hand tremor is often the first sign or symptom in a person with Parkinson's disease. MayoClinic.com states that other common signs and symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease include slow movements or bradykinesia, rigid muscles, impaired posture and balance, loss of involuntary movements such as blinking, smiling and swinging the arms, decreased facial expression, speech changes and dementia. The NINDS states that, at present, there is no cure for Parkinson's disease.
Wilson's Disease
Wilson's disease may cause a decrease in dopamine levels. Wilson's disease is characterized by the accumulation of copper in various parts of the body, including the brain. Dr. Ray Sahelian, a medical doctor, nutritionist and author, states that excess copper in the brain can alter the balance of dopamine and norepinephrine, both of which are mood-regulating chemicals. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder that prevents a person's body from getting rid of extra copper. A person with Wilson's disease will develop copper accumulation in the brain, liver, eyes and other organs. In some cases, copper accumulation can cause life-threatening organ damage. Common signs and symptoms associated with Wilson's disease include jaundice or yellowing of the skin, swelling of the liver or spleen, fatigue, speech problems, muscle stiffness, behavioral changes and loss of coordination.
Magnesium Deficiency
Magnesium deficiency can cause decreased levels of dopamine. According to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body and is important for good health. About 50 percent of magnesium in the body is found in bone; the other 50 percent is found in other body tissues and organs. Magnesium is crucial for memory and other cognitive functions. In some people, magnesium deficiency can manifest due to lack of magnesium in the diet, leading to memory decline and a dopamine deficiency. Common signs and symptoms associated with magnesium deficiency include decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, personality changes, muscle spasms and cramps, fatigue, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, depression and cluster headaches. The National Institutes of Health states that certain individuals may need extra magnesium, including people with poorly-controlled diabetes, people with Crohn's disease and older adults.
References
- University of Texas at Austin: Dopamine
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: What is Parkinson's Disease?
- MayoClinic.com: Parkinson's Disease
- RaySahelian.com: Copper Mineral Supplement
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Wilson Disease
- National Institutes of Health: Magnesium
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