What is POTS?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system and blood circulation. When you stand up, your heart rate increases significantly more than normal, which can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

How POTS Affects Your Body

In a healthy person, when you stand up, your body automatically adjusts blood flow to maintain steady blood pressure and adequate blood supply to your brain. Your heart rate may increase slightly (10-20 beats per minute) as part of this normal adjustment.

In people with POTS, this adjustment doesn't work properly. Instead of a small increase, the heart rate jumps dramatically — often by 30 or more beats per minute within 10 minutes of standing. This excessive heart rate response is the hallmark of POTS.

Common POTS Symptoms

POTS symptoms typically appear or worsen when standing and may include:

Explore All POTS Symptoms

Who Gets POTS?

POTS affects an estimated 1-3 million Americans, though the exact number is unknown because many cases go undiagnosed. The condition is most common in:

• Women: About 80% of POTS patients are female
• Young adults: Often develops between ages 15-50
• Post-viral patients: Can develop after viral infections (including COVID-19)
• Those with hypermobile joints: Often associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

What Causes POTS?

POTS can have many different underlying causes, and often the exact trigger is unknown. Common contributing factors include:

• Viral infections (COVID-19, mononucleosis, Lyme disease)
• Autoimmune conditions
• Deconditioning (prolonged bed rest or inactivity)
• Physical trauma (surgery, injury, pregnancy)
• Genetic factors (connective tissue disorders)

How is POTS Diagnosed?

POTS diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized testing:

Tilt Table Test

The gold standard for POTS diagnosis. You lie on a table that tilts from horizontal to near-vertical while your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored. This test is usually done in a hospital or specialized clinic.

Active Standing Test

A simpler alternative where you stand up from lying down while heart rate and blood pressure are measured at intervals. This can be done in a doctor's office.

NASA Lean Test

A variation of the standing test where you lean against a wall while standing. This is the protocol used by POTS Check for home screening.

Treatment Options

While there's no cure for POTS, many treatments can help manage symptoms effectively:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Increasing fluid intake (2-3 liters daily)
• Adding salt to diet (under medical guidance)
• Wearing compression garments
• Elevating the head of your bed
• Avoiding triggers (heat, alcohol, large meals)

Exercise Programs

Graduated exercise programs, starting with recumbent exercises (swimming, recumbent biking) and progressing to upright activities, can significantly improve POTS symptoms over time.

Medications

Various medications may be prescribed depending on your specific symptoms, including beta-blockers, fludrocortisone, midodrine, and others. Work with your healthcare provider to find the right approach for you.

Take the Next Step

If you're experiencing symptoms that might be related to POTS, POTS Check can help you gather objective data to share with your healthcare provider.

Learn How POTS Check Works Download Free