Have you ever stood up too quickly and felt dizzy, lightheaded, or like you might pass out? If this sensation happens often, it could be due to a condition called Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). This chronic disorder affects blood circulation and can significantly impact daily life.
What is POTS?
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a type of dysautonomia, a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system—the system responsible for regulating involuntary body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
POTS is diagnosed when a person’s heart rate increases by at least 30 beats per minute within 10 minutes of standing, without a significant drop in blood pressure. This abnormal heart rate response can cause dizziness, fatigue, and fainting, making daily activities more difficult. While POTS is most commonly diagnosed in young women, it can affect individuals of any age.
The exact cause of POTS remains unclear, but several factors contribute to its development:
Neuropathic POTS: Damage to small nerve fibers impairs blood vessel constriction, leading to poor circulation and blood pooling in the lower body.
Hyperadrenergic POTS: Excess norepinephrine levels overstimulate the nervous system, causing an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure.
Hypovolemic POTS: Low blood volume reduces circulation efficiency, making it harder for the body to maintain stable blood pressure.
Autoimmune Factors: Some individuals with POTS also have autoimmune conditions, suggesting a potential link between the immune system and the disorder.
POTS presents with a variety of symptoms, including:
✅ Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing ✅ Fainting (syncope) ✅ Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) ✅ Fatigue and muscle weakness ✅ Brain fog and difficulty concentrating ✅ Shortness of breath ✅ Exercise intolerance ✅ Sweating abnormalities ✅ Digestive issues (nausea, bloating, abdominal discomfort) ✅ Sensitivity to heat or cold ✅ Tingling or numbness in the legs ✅ Frequent urination ✅ Sensitivity to light and noise ✅ Headaches or migraines ✅ Anxiety or low mood
These symptoms can be debilitating, making it difficult for individuals to go about their daily lives.
How is POTS Treated?
While there is no single cure for POTS, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
1. Lifestyle Adjustments
Stay Hydrated: Drinking 2-3 liters of water per day helps maintain proper blood volume.
Increase Salt Intake: Sodium helps the body retain fluids and supports blood pressure stability.
Wear Compression Garments: Compression socks or abdominal binders reduce blood pooling in the legs.
Transition Slowly: Moving gradually from sitting to standing can prevent dizziness.
Exercise Regularly: Low-impact activities such as swimming, recumbent biking, and rowing can improve circulation.
2. Medications
Depending on symptoms, doctors may prescribe:
Fludrocortisone: Helps increase blood volume.
Midodrine: Encourages blood vessel constriction to prevent blood pooling.
Beta-blockers: Help control heart rate.
Ivabradine: Regulates heart rate without lowering blood pressure.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Help balance autonomic nervous system function.
3. Physical Therapy
A structured exercise program focusing on gradual cardiovascular and strength training can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms over time.
4. Dietary Adjustments
Eat small, frequent meals to prevent sudden blood pressure drops.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate the body and worsen symptoms.
Ensure adequate electrolyte intake to support nerve and muscle function.
5. Treating Underlying Conditions
If POTS is associated with autoimmune disorders, neuropathy, or hypovolemia, addressing these underlying issues can help manage symptoms more effectively.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you frequently experience dizziness, heart palpitations, fainting, or extreme fatigue, it’s important to consult a specialist. Because POTS is often misdiagnosed as anxiety or panic disorder, visiting a clinic that focuses on autonomic nervous system conditions—such as The Heartbeat Clinic—can help ensure an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
At The Heartbeat Clinic, we provide comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment options to help individuals with POTS regain control of their health. Don’t let POTS limit your life—schedule an appointment today!