POTS: Understanding Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome
If you often feel dizzy when standing up, notice your heart racing, or feel unusually tired while upright, you may have a condition called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). POTS affects the autonomic nervous system, which helps control heart rate and blood circulation. Although it can interfere with daily life, symptoms can often be managed with appropriate treatment.
What Is POTS?
POTS is a form of orthostatic intolerance in which the heart rate increases significantly after standing. In adults, a sustained increase of at least 30 beats per minute within 10 minutes of standing is generally part of the diagnostic criteria, without significant orthostatic hypotension.
Common symptoms include dizziness, a racing or pounding heartbeat, fatigue, weakness, blurred vision, brain fog, nausea, and sometimes fainting.
What Causes POTS?
The exact cause of POTS is not fully understood. It may involve problems with the autonomic nervous system, blood-vessel function, or blood-volume regulation. In some people, symptoms begin after an infection or other physical stress. Dehydration, heat, and prolonged inactivity can also make symptoms worse.
How Is POTS Diagnosed?
A doctor will usually check your heart rate and blood pressure while you are lying down and standing. A standing test or tilt-table test may be used to assess your response to being upright. Blood tests, an ECG, or other tests may also be recommended to rule out conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
How Is POTS Treated?
Treatment is individualized and often starts with lifestyle measures. These may include adequate fluids, increased salt intake when medically appropriate, compression stockings, and a gradual exercise or physical-conditioning program.
Some people may also need medications to help control heart rate, blood pressure, or blood-volume-related symptoms. These should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.
Can POTS Be Managed?
Yes. POTS can be a long-term condition, but many people can improve their symptoms and daily functioning with appropriate management. If you frequently experience dizziness, a racing heartbeat, or feeling faint when standing, it is important to see a healthcare professional because several other conditions can cause similar symptoms.