Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a blood circulation disorder characterized by two factors: a specific group of symptoms that frequently occur when standing up, and an exaggerated increase in heart rate. POTS is a form of dysautonomia, which is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system that regulates functions we don’t consciously control, such as heart rate, blood pressure, sweating, and body temperature.

The primary symptom of POTS is lightheadedness or fainting, which is accompanied by a rapid increase in heartbeat of more than 30 beats per minute, or a heart rate that exceeds 120 beats per minute, within 10 minutes of rising. POTS can develop suddenly or gradually over time, and it can affect anyone at any age, but it mainly affects women between the ages of 15 to 50 years of age.

The causes of POTS vary from person to person, and researchers don’t entirely understand the origins of this disorder. However, some factors that can increase the risk of developing POTS include significant illnesses, such as viral illnesses like mononucleosis or serious infections, pregnancy, physical trauma, such as a head injury, surgery, and certain autoimmune conditions, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, lupus, and celiac disease.

POTS symptoms may also get worse when you get a common cold or an infection. In severe cases, POTS symptoms can prevent a person from being upright for more than a couple of minutes, which can greatly affect all aspects of personal, school, work, and social life.

There is no cure for POTS, but healthcare providers use several strategies to manage the symptoms of POTS. Treatment is highly individualized based on your symptoms and what works best for you. The main forms of treatment include exercise and physical activity, diet and nutrition, and medical compression stockings that can help push blood up from your legs to reduce POTS symptoms.

If you experience symptoms of POTS, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.