Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there has been a significant increase in POTS diagnoses. Many people who recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience symptoms months later — a condition commonly called "Long COVID" or "Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2" (PASC).
The Long COVID-POTS Connection
Research suggests that a significant portion of Long COVID patients meet the diagnostic criteria for POTS. While the exact percentage varies between studies, some estimates suggest that up to 30% of Long COVID patients may have POTS or POTS-like symptoms.
Why Does COVID-19 Trigger POTS?
Several mechanisms have been proposed:
- Autoimmune response: The immune response to COVID-19 may create antibodies that affect the autonomic nervous system
- Direct viral damage: The virus may directly affect nerve cells or blood vessels
- Deconditioning: Extended bed rest during illness can contribute to orthostatic intolerance
- Inflammation: Persistent inflammation may affect cardiovascular regulation
Common Long COVID Symptoms That May Indicate POTS
If you had COVID-19 and are now experiencing these symptoms, POTS screening may be helpful:
Dizziness When Standing
Feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or like you might faint when you stand up or have been standing for a while.
Racing Heart
Heart pounding, racing, or fluttering when you're upright, even without physical exertion.
Fatigue That Doesn't Improve
Overwhelming tiredness that persists despite rest and adequate sleep.
Brain Fog
Difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly, or remembering things.
Exercise Intolerance
Unable to tolerate physical activity that was previously manageable.
Post-Exertional Malaise
Feeling much worse (crashing) after physical or mental exertion.
Why Early Screening Matters
Many Long COVID patients struggle to get answers because their symptoms are dismissed or attributed to anxiety. Objective data from POTS screening can:
- Validate your experience: Show that your symptoms have a measurable, physical basis
- Guide treatment: Help healthcare providers determine the right approach for your symptoms
- Track progress: Monitor how your symptoms change over time with treatment
- Advocate for care: Provide evidence to support specialist referrals or additional testing
Formal POTS diagnosis often requires a tilt table test, which can have wait times of weeks to months. Home screening with POTS Check lets you gather preliminary data while waiting, helping you have more informed conversations with your healthcare team.
Screening for POTS After COVID
POTS Check uses the NASA Lean Test to measure your heart rate response when standing. This can help identify if you have the characteristic heart rate increase seen in POTS.
What the Test Measures
- Your resting heart rate while lying down (baseline)
- How your heart rate changes when you stand up
- Whether your heart rate increase meets POTS criteria (30+ bpm for adults)
- Any symptoms you experience during the test
What to Do With Your Results
If your test shows a POTS-consistent pattern, share the PDF report with your healthcare provider. They may recommend:
- Formal tilt table testing for diagnosis
- Blood work to rule out other causes
- Referral to a cardiologist or autonomic specialist
- Lifestyle modifications (increased fluids, salt, compression)
- Physical therapy or exercise programs
Treatment and Recovery
The good news is that many people with post-COVID POTS see improvement over time, especially with proper treatment. Common approaches include:
Lifestyle Modifications
- Increasing fluid intake (2-3 liters daily)
- Adding salt to diet (under medical guidance)
- Wearing compression garments
- Avoiding triggers (heat, alcohol, large meals)
Graduated Exercise
Starting with recumbent exercises (swimming, recumbent bike) and gradually progressing to upright activities can help recondition your cardiovascular system. Work with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to develop an appropriate program.
Medications
Various medications may help manage symptoms. These are prescribed based on your specific situation and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. If you're experiencing symptoms after COVID-19, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. POTS Check is a wellness screening tool, not a diagnostic device. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose POTS or Long COVID.
Take the Next Step
If you're experiencing symptoms that might be related to Long COVID or POTS, screening at home can help you gather objective data to share with your healthcare provider.