POTS
(Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)

What is POTS Syndrome? 

POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) is a form of Dysautonomia. It is characterized by orthostatic intolerance that is associated with the presence of excessive tachycardia and abnormally rapid heart rate upon standing. Simply put, POTS is a medical condition characterized by a rapid increase in heart rate upon assuming an upright posture. However, because this disorder affects the regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), patients with POTS experience many other symptoms besides orthostatic intolerance. Regulation of blood flow throughout the body is an essential function of the ANS that gets disrupted, causing a multitude of life-altering symptoms such as: 

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• Chronic Fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

• Heart palpitations

• Headache

• Poor concentration

• Tiredness

• Gastrointestinal symptoms (for example, nausea, cramps, bloating, constipation, diarrhea)

• Shortness of breath

• Head, neck, or chest discomfort

• Weakness

• Sleep disorders

• Difficulty exercising

• Anxiety

• Coldness or pain in the extremities

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Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some patients can be bedridden or hospitalized, but you don't have to live this way. Unfortunately, there are ZERO approved medications for the regulation of POTS symptoms. Still, new and exciting clinical research shows the effectiveness of exercise and other brain-based therapies in symptom reduction and quality of life for patients with POTS. The ANS starts in the brain. Therefore, it is pivotal that we address the underlying issues at the source to improve the integrity of the ANS throughout the brain and body. There are treatment options out there that DO NOT include drugs or surgery.