Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a complex condition characterised by an abnormal increase in heart rate when moving from a lying to a standing position. This rapid heart rate can lead to symptoms like dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, brain fog, palpitations, and sometimes fainting, even without a significant drop in blood pressure. POTS is a form of dysautonomia, meaning there’s a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle modifications
Increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression garments, regular recumbent (lying down) exercise, elevating the head of the bed, and avoiding triggers like heat or prolonged standing.
Physical therapy
A supervised, gradual exercise program tailored for POTS can be very beneficial.
Medication
Various medications can help manage symptoms, including those that help regulate blood pressure, heart rate, or blood volume.
Dietary changes
Smaller, more frequent meals, and avoiding large, carbohydrate-heavy meals can sometimes help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is POTS a heart disease?
While POTS affects heart rate, it’s primarily a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, not a primary heart muscle or structural problem.
Is there a cure for POTS?
There is currently no definitive cure for POTS, but symptoms can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medication, allowing many individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
Can POTS be debilitating?
For some individuals, POTS symptoms can be severe and significantly impact quality of life, leading to challenges with daily activities, work, or school.
How is POTS diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically based on your symptoms and a tilt table test, which monitors your heart rate and blood pressure changes when you move from lying to standing.