Serotonin syndrome is a condition in which the chemical serotonin builds up in the body, causing a number of often severe symptoms. The most common signs of serotonin syndrome include changes in normal digestive and cardiovascular health. Other symptoms may include restlessness, clumsiness, and an increase in twitching and shivering despite normal temperatures. Some patients suffering from serotonin syndrome may even see hallucinations. Often, serotonin syndrome develops through the use of anti-depressant or other similar medications, and it can be fatal if not treated.
One of the most common signs of serotonin syndrome include changes in normal digestive function. Typically, this includes nausea, which may increase in the frequency and intensity, as well as frequent vomiting. In addition, an abnormally high serotonin level can also sometimes lead to lower digestive tract symptoms such as diarrhea. While these symptoms may occur just as easily in healthy adults as in those suffer from serotonin syndrome, in those suffering from an increased amount of serotonin in the body, the digestive disorders are usually more intense and last for a longer time.
Cardiac symptoms are also very common signs of serotonin syndrome. Some of the most classic cardiac symptoms of this condition include an increase in heartbeat, rapid changes in blood pressure, and a heart rhythm that is abnormal or irregular. While these symptoms may not seem highly dangerous for most people, when they are sustained for a long period of time, they can be life threatening. Rapid changes in blood pressure can be especially dangerous, as it can lead to stroke, coma, or even death. Those who suffer from such cardiac symptoms should seek medical help as soon as possible.
Other classic signs of serotonin syndrome include restlessness, clumsiness, and twitching and shivering despite normal environmental temperatures. In some cases of severe serotonin syndrome, patients may even be prone to seeing hallucinations. These secondary signs of serotonin syndrome are often the way that the condition is most easily identified. While the other symptoms may seem more serious, they often are mistaken for other, more common conditions, such as food poisoning or even a possible heart attack.
The best way to treat serotonin syndrome is with the use of increased fluids, muscle relaxants, and anti-serotonin medications. Physician supervision is required in order to achieve optimal results. In addition, patients suffering from this condition often must be hospitalized for several days.
