15 Clear Warnings Your Body Might Be in Serotonin Overdrive

3. Restlessness, Agitation, And Confusion

There are a number of mental and cognitive symptoms caused by serotonin syndrome. Serotonin normally regulates mood, but an excess of the chemical causes the brain to lose its ability to regulate emotions. The cognitive symptoms may also be worsened by the pain and discomfort from symptoms in the rest of the body. Patients often experience restlessness and agitation. They may feel like they need to pace around or like their skin is crawling. Confusion is also fairly common. While mild confusion might not be an inherent sign of severe serotonin syndrome, serious confusion should be treated with concern. Any unusual, uncontrolled mood and cognitive changes are a sign of neurological issues. If individuals experience these following a new medication dose, they should contact their doctor or seek emergency medical care.

4. Rapid Or Irregular Heart Rate

Serotonin syndrome can cause a rapid or irregular heart rate, usually coupled with high blood pressure. Many of the cardiovascular symptoms are similar to the symptoms from taking a too-high stimulant dose. An unexplained and rapid heartbeat isn't always cause for concern, but it's absolutely a warning sign if it occurs after a medication adjustment. In addition, irregular heart rhythms are a sign of severe serotonin syndrome. High blood pressure occurs when the blood vessels are too constricted for the blood to pump adequately, causing increased pressure against the vessel walls. Chronic high blood pressure can lead to cardiovascular damage. Heart rate symptoms shouldn't be ignored, especially if they're accompanied by neurological or physiological symptoms. Serotonin syndrome can get worse before it gets better, particularly when the syndrome-causing medication is still working in the body. It's crucial to get medical help before severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms set in.