POTS symptoms typically appear or worsen when standing and often improve when lying down. The severity can vary from day to day and person to person.
Dizziness & Lightheadedness
Feeling unsteady, like the room is spinning, or like you might faint — especially when standing up from sitting or lying down.
Learn more →Rapid Heartbeat
Heart racing, pounding, or fluttering (palpitations) that occurs when you stand up and may persist while upright.
Learn more →Fatigue & Weakness
Overwhelming tiredness that doesn't improve with rest. Feeling weak or exhausted, especially after standing or physical activity.
Learn more →Brain Fog
Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or remembering things. Mental "cloudiness" that worsens when upright.
Headaches
Headaches that occur or worsen when standing, sometimes described as a pressure sensation that improves when lying down.
Nausea
Feeling sick to your stomach, especially after standing for extended periods or after meals.
Shakiness & Trembling
Feeling shaky or trembling, particularly in the legs, when standing or after being upright for a while.
Exercise Intolerance
Difficulty exercising or feeling much worse during or after physical activity than expected.
Visual Disturbances
Blurred vision, tunnel vision, or seeing spots, particularly when standing or changing position.
Chest Discomfort
Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort, especially when standing. (Always have chest symptoms evaluated by a doctor.)
Temperature Dysregulation
Difficulty regulating body temperature, feeling too hot or too cold, or excessive sweating.
Sleep Problems
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling rested after sleep. Some people experience insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
The Key Characteristic of POTS Symptoms
What distinguishes POTS from other conditions is that symptoms typically:
- Appear or worsen when standing up
- Improve or resolve when lying down
- Are accompanied by a significant heart rate increase (30+ bpm in adults)
If your symptoms follow this pattern, it may be worth discussing POTS screening with your healthcare provider.
Could It Be POTS?
Many conditions share symptoms with POTS. Home screening can help you gather data to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Track Your Symptoms
Note when symptoms occur, what makes them better or worse, and how long they last.
Screen with POTS Check
Use the NASA Lean Test to measure your heart rate response when standing.
Talk to Your Doctor
Share your test results and symptom log with a healthcare provider for evaluation.
Related Topics
Long COVID & POTS
Many people develop POTS-like symptoms after recovering from COVID-19.
Learn about the connection →How to Screen at Home
Use the NASA Lean Test to gather data about your heart rate response.
How POTS Check works →Medical Disclaimer
This symptom information is for educational purposes only. Many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than POTS. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.