Understanding POTS: What It Is and How It Affects Your Body

If your heart races every time you stand up, or you feel lightheaded and fatigued for no clear reason, you might be dealing with POTS — Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Though not widely known, this condition is affecting an increasing number of people, especially in the wake of COVID-19.

In this article, we'll break down what POTS is, how it affects your body, and what you can do about it. Whether you're newly diagnosed or just curious, this is your go-to guide for understanding dysautonomia POTS, POTS treatment options, and more.

What Is POTS? A Simple Explanation

How to explain POTS in simple terms?
 POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. It's a form of dysautonomia — a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.

In people with POTS, the heart rate increases significantly (by 30+ beats per minute) within 10 minutes of standing up, without a significant drop in blood pressure. This abnormal response causes a wide range of symptoms that can interfere with daily life.

POTS Symptoms Checklist

Symptoms vary, but many people experience:

  • Rapid heartbeat upon standing (orthostatic tachycardia)

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

  • Nausea or digestive issues

  • Cold or discolored extremities

  • Chest pain or shortness of breath

This is where terms like postural tachycardia and POTS heart come into play — the body struggles to regulate heart rate and circulation effectively.

What Causes POTS?

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several triggers and risk factors have been identified:

  • Viral infections (including COVID-19, leading to COVID tachycardia or tachycardia post-COVID)

  • Autoimmune diseases

  • Genetics

  • Trauma, surgery, or pregnancy

  • Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

The rise of tachycardia after COVID has brought new attention to POTS, with some patients developing symptoms weeks or months after recovery.

Different Types of POTS

Not all POTS cases are the same. Here are the main subtypes:

  • Neuropathic POTS: Damage to small nerve fibers that affect blood vessel constriction.

  • Hyperadrenergic POTS: Characterized by high norepinephrine levels and symptoms like tremors, anxiety, and high blood pressure.

  • Hypovolemic POTS: Related to low blood volume.

Each type can require a different approach to POTS treatment, so getting an accurate diagnosis is critical.

What Triggers a POTS Flare?

Many patients ask, "What triggers a POTS flare?" Common triggers include:

  • Standing for long periods

  • Heat exposure

  • Dehydration

  • Illness or infection

  • Menstrual cycle changes

  • Stress or overexertion

Keeping a symptom journal can help identify your personal triggers.

Is POTS Dangerous?

POTS itself is not usually life-threatening, but it can be debilitating. It impacts quality of life, school, work, and relationships. The good news is that with proper management, symptoms can significantly improve.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Person with POTS?

Most people with POTS have a normal life expectancy. While it's a chronic condition for many, others experience remission or significant improvement, especially with tailored treatment and lifestyle changes.

How Is POTS Diagnosed?

Diagnosis often involves:

  • Tilt table test

  • Active stand test

  • Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring

  • Blood volume tests

  • Lab work to check for autoimmune or hormonal issues

You may be referred to a POTS electrophysiologist or neurologist who specializes in POTS diseases and autonomic disorders.

POTS Treatment Options

There is no one-size-fits-all cure, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Increase salt and fluid intake

  • Wear compression garments

  • Avoid triggers like heat and prolonged standing

  • Practice recumbent exercises (like rowing or swimming)

Medications

  • Beta-blockers

  • Fludrocortisone

  • Midodrine

  • SSRIs or SNRIs (for blood vessel support)

Therapies

  • Physical therapy designed for POTS

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety or depression associated with chronic illness

Working with an electrophysiologist POTS specialist or autonomic dysfunction clinic can help create a personalized care plan.

Living with POTS: You're Not Alone

Navigating POTS symptoms can be overwhelming, but support is out there. Online communities, support groups, and awareness resources are growing every day. Advocating for your health and educating others (even doctors!) can be empowering.

Final Thoughts

POTS may be invisible, but it’s very real — and with awareness and the right care, you can live a full, vibrant life. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or still searching for answers, understanding how POTS affects your body is the first step toward managing it.

Key Phrases Recap for SEO:

  • POTS treatment

  • Dysautonomia POTS

  • Hyperadrenergic POTS

  • Orthostatic tachycardia

  • Postural orthostatic tachycardia

  • Postural tachycardia

  • COVID tachycardia

  • Tachycardia COVID

  • POTS heart

  • Electrophysiologist POTS

  • POTS diseases

  • How to explain POTS in simple terms?

  • What triggers a POTS flare?

  • What is the life expectancy of a person with POTS?

  • Is POTS dangerous

  • What causes POTS

  • POTS symptoms checklist

Have questions about POTS or your symptoms? Drop them in the comments or share your story — you’re not alone.

Would you like a downloadable POTS symptom tracker or flare-up management guide? Let me know!

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