Serotonin Syndrome

Overview

There aren’t any tests to diagnose serotonin symptoms. Your healthcare provider usually makes the diagnosis based on the results of your physical exam, review of your symptoms and history of medications you take that affect serotonin levels.

You can assist your healthcare provider by telling them all the products you take, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, herbal products and illegal drugs. (Be honest. Don’t worry. Your healthcare provider is here to help you, not judge you.)

Your healthcare provider may order:

Blood and urine tests to measure the levels of drugs you’re taking.
Tests to check how well your body is functioning.
Tests to look for signs of infection, including a spinal tap.
Other tests (including chest X-ray, CT scan), as needed, to rule out other disorders that may cause similar symptoms or to identify any complications.

Products & Services

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.