Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition characterised by an abnormal increase in heart rate when transitioning from lying down to standing up.
This condition affects the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, fatigue, and in some cases, headaches.
POTS is more common in women and often affects those between 15 and 50 years old.
Causes of POTS
The exact cause of POTS is not entirely understood, but it is believed to be linked to various factors, including genetic predisposition, viral infections, autoimmune conditions, and prolonged periods of bed rest.
Some studies also suggest that POTS may be associated with a dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system or an imbalance in blood volume regulation (Sheldon et al., 2015).
Treatment Options
Treating POTS typically involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and physical therapy.
Increasing fluid and salt intake can help to boost blood volume and prevent dehydration, which is crucial for managing symptoms.
Medications such as beta-blockers, fludrocortisone, and midodrine are often prescribed to manage heart rate and blood pressure (Raj, 2013).
Physical therapy focusing on reconditioning exercises can also improve tolerance to standing and reduce symptoms.
5 Tips to Manage Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Dietary Modifications Under Medical Guidance: Increasing fluid and salt intake can be beneficial for managing POTS symptoms, but it’s important to do so under the guidance of a health professional. They can help tailor your diet to boost blood volume safely and effectively, which is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and reducing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.
- Wear Compression Garments: Compression stockings or abdominal binders can help improve blood circulation and prevent blood pooling in the legs, which is a common issue in POTS patients. This can reduce dizziness and lightheadedness when standing.
- Gradual Physical Conditioning: Engaging in a structured exercise program focused on low-impact, recumbent exercises (such as swimming, cycling, or rowing) can help improve cardiovascular fitness and increase tolerance to standing. Gradual reconditioning over time is key to managing symptoms effectively.
- Avoid Prolonged Standing and Rapid Position Changes: Minimise the time spent standing still, especially in hot environments, and avoid rapid movements from lying down to standing up. These actions can trigger or worsen POTS symptoms. If you need to stand for long periods, try shifting your weight or moving your legs to keep blood circulating.
- Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can help avoid blood pressure drops that often follow heavy meals. Some POTS patients find that high carbohydrate meals can worsen symptoms, so monitoring your diet and adjusting as necessary can be beneficial.
POTS and Secondary Headaches
POTS is frequently associated with secondary headaches, often due to altered blood flow and pressure changes within the brain when standing up.
These headaches can be severe and are sometimes mistaken for migraines. Managing POTS effectively can reduce the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
Techniques such as staying hydrated, avoiding triggers, using compression garments and physical therapy can minimise the occurrence of headaches in POTS patients (Freeman et al., 2011).
Summary
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a complex condition that can significantly impact daily life.
With proper management, including lifestyle changes, medications, and physical therapy, many individuals can effectively control their symptoms.
The link between POTS and secondary headaches highlights the importance of comprehensive care.
If you or someone you know is struggling with headaches that may be linked to POTS, don’t hesitate to call us on 1800 432 322 or book a consultation with one of our expert headache clinicians.
Let us help you take control of your symptoms and improve your quality of life!
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References
Freeman, R., Wieling, W., Axelrod, F. B., Benditt, D. G., Benarroch, E., Biaggioni, I., … & van Dijk, J. G. (2011). Consensus statement on the definition of orthostatic hypotension, neurally mediated syncope and the postural tachycardia syndrome. Clinical Autonomic Research, 21(2), 69-72.
Raj, S. R. (2013). Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Circulation, 127(23), 2336-2342.
Sheldon, R. S., Grubb, B. P., Olshansky, B., Shen, W. K., Calkins, H., Brignole, M., … & Raj, S. R. (2015). 2015 heart rhythm society expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome, inappropriate sinus tachycardia, and vasovagal syncope. Heart Rhythm, 12(6), e41-e63.
