What Does Low Serotonin Feel Like?

The symptoms of fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS) are all over the map. Why would one condition cause pain, fatigue, binge eating, self confidence, and abdominal problems? It's confusing and bewildering, not to mention way less than fun to live with!

But all of those seemingly random symptoms do have something in common - they all stem from low serotonin levels. And they're not the only problems related to low levels of this substance, which is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone.

Physical symptoms include:

• Chronic fatigue, in spite of adequate rest
• Disturbed sleep
• Either loss of appetite or carb cravings, possibly due to the body's attempt to make more serotonin
• Hot flushes and temperature changes
• Headaches
• Stomach pains

Emotional symptoms include:

• Loss of interest in sex
• Social withdrawal
• Sadness and frequent crying spells
• Low self-esteem and self-confidence
• Loss of personality
• Feeling emotionally sensitive and taking things personally
• Irritability

Serotonin is a regulator, and without enough, our bodies just aren't regular! Doctors don't generally test you for low serotonin levels (most labs don't offer it, and most insurance companies don't cover it), so it has to be diagnosed based on symptoms.

Probably the most common way to boost serotonin is through medication: selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors (SNRI). The supplement 5-HTP can do it as well, as can your diet. Morning sunlight can help, too. As always, you should work with your doctor to decide which method is best for you!

How do you raise your serotonin level? Share your experience here or in About.com's Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome forum (under Newsletter & Blog Topics).

Suggested Reading:

• Fibromyalgia Symptoms List
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms List
• Drugs for Treating Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome