POTS is a problem of the autonomic nervous system’s control of blood flow (or circulation). Normally, when you stand up, gravity pulls more blood into your lower body; but to make sure that enough blood is still flowing to the brain, the body releases the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, which help tighten the blood vessels and increase your heart rate.
FaintingLightheadedness or dizzinessBrain fogFatigue or exhaustionBlurry visionHeart palpitationsNauseaHeadachesHead and neck discomfortChest painShortness of breathColdness or pain in the extremitiesA decrease in blood plasma volume, due to blood pooling in the abdomen and legs
Fludrocortisone, which helps the kidneys retain sodiumBeta-blockers, which can decrease the increase in heart rateMidodrine, which causes the blood vessels to constrictPyridostigmine, which affects parasympathetic nervous system activity
Alternative and Complementary Therapies
Prevention of POTS
More than 70 million people have some type of dysautonomia, including POTS. Other forms of dysautonomia include neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS), or fainting spells. Another is inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST), in which the heart beats unexpectedly quickly while a person is at rest or only slightly active. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, most adolescents and young adults with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) have POTS or related forms of orthostatic intolerance. Dysautonomia International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with autonomic nervous system disorders, including POTS. They do advocacy work, spread awareness, and raise money to fund research opportunities. On their site you can also find information about POTS, both for patients and for family and friends. Dysautonomia Information Network This volunteer-run nonprofit provides information on dysautonomia disorders and offers a moderated online forum where you can connect with others and discuss issues related to POTS. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) In addition to an overview of the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of POTS, GARD provides links to current clinical trials as well as a list of helpful organizations for people with the condition. It’s run by the National Institutes of Health. Additional reporting by Cathy Cassata.
