Serious Warning Signs of Serotonin Syndrome

High Fever

A high fever is one of the most characteristic symptoms of severe serotonin syndrome. Fevers tend to occur because the overproduction of serotonin causes a loss of ability to regulate body temperature, which leads to an overall rise in core temperature. Any fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit is generally considered high. Individuals with high fevers are often experiencing hyperthermia, an increase in body temperature that can potentially lead to organ damage. These patients need to seek emergency medical care immediately. It's important to tell the doctors about any medications they've taken, especially new doses. For doctors, one of the key signs that separates serotonin syndrome from other hyperthermic disorders is the shivering. If the condition isn't treated, the neurological conditions may progress to seizures and total unconsciousness.