What Are The Causes and Symptoms Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) ?

What Is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a type of disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, the system that controls involuntary body functions like heart rate and blood pressure.

In simple terms, POTS happens when a person’s heart rate increases abnormally after standing up from a sitting or lying position. Instead of adjusting smoothly, the heart races (by 30 beats per minute or more) to compensate for blood pooling in the lower body.

POTS is more common in women between the ages of 15 and 50 but can affect anyone. While it’s not life-threatening, it can be life-altering due to its chronic and often unpredictable nature.

How Does POTS Affect the Body?

When you stand, gravity pulls blood toward your legs and lower body. In most people, the body responds by tightening blood vessels and increasing heart rate slightly to maintain steady blood flow to the brain.

In those with POTS, this process doesn’t work properly. The body struggles to constrict blood vessels, so blood stays pooled in the lower half. The heart then compensates by beating much faster, leading to symptoms such as:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting (in severe cases)
Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
Fatigue or weakness
“Brain fog” or difficulty concentrating

Over time, this constant strain can cause exhaustion, anxiety, and even digestive problems, as the autonomic nervous system affects multiple body functions.

Main Causes of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

There’s no single cause of POTS, it’s often linked to several underlying factors. Understanding POTS causes and symptoms helps patients and healthcare providers better manage the condition.

Here are the most common causes and triggers:

Possible Causes of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Possible Cause	Description
Genetics	Some people may have a hereditary predisposition to POTS.
Viral Illness	POTS can develop after a viral infection that disrupts the nervous system.
Autoimmune Disorders	Conditions like lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome may trigger POTS.
Deconditioning	Long periods of bed rest or inactivity can affect blood flow regulation.
Hormonal Changes	POTS symptoms often worsen during hormonal fluctuations, such as puberty or menopause.
Low Blood Volume	Decreased plasma or red blood cell volume contributes to poor circulation.

Common Symptoms of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

POTS symptoms vary from person to person, but they generally appear when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing.

Here are the most common signs:

Rapid heartbeat (increasing by 30 bpm or more within 10 minutes of standing)
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Fatigue or general weakness
Blurred vision or tunnel vision
Nausea or stomach upset
Sweating or feeling overheated easily
Shakiness or tremors
Shortness of breath
Difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)

These symptoms can make daily activities like showering, cooking, or even walking feel challenging. Recognizing these early helps in seeking POTS treatment faster and managing its effects effectively.

Who are at risk of POTS?

Anybody can be affected by POTS. However, POTS is often observed in adults, particularly women between the ages 30-50 years old and teenagers at the onset of puberty .

Although boys and men can also develop POTS, up to 80 percent of people affected by the syndrome are females. A high female to male POTS ratio of 5:1 is seen, especially after experiencing fever, sepsis, trauma, surgery, and pregnancy.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic tests for POTS include according to cleveland clinic: an active stand test, in which your blood pressure level and heart rate are recorded after changing positions from sitting, lying down, and right away after standing. Any symptoms you may experience will be noted within 10 minutes.

A tilt table test may also be recommended by your doctor. This test involves being strapped to a table at specific positions or angles while your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored and recorded.

If you’ve ever stood up and suddenly felt dizzy or your heart raced out of nowhere, you might have wondered, what is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome? Commonly known as POTS, this condition affects how blood flows in the body, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, and fatigue. Although it’s often misunderstood, POTS is a real and diagnosable condition that can significantly impact daily life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and management options can make a big difference in living well with it.

What Are the Best Compression Socks for POTS?

One of the most practical and doctor-recommended ways to manage POTS is by wearing compression socks. These garments improve blood circulation and reduce blood pooling in the legs, helping minimize dizziness and fatigue.

When choosing the best compression socks for POTS, look for:

Graduated compression (20–30 mmHg) – tightest at the ankle and looser up the leg.
Knee-high or thigh-high options – depending on your comfort and medical advice.
Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric – to keep your legs cool during long wear.
Seamless design – for maximum comfort during daily activities.

High-quality compression gear, such as those offered by Doc Miller Sports, can help improve circulation and reduce symptoms associated with POTS. They’re designed for comfort, performance, and all-day support ideal for anyone managing orthostatic intolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best POTS treatment?
Treatment often includes lifestyle changes (hydration, salt intake, compression socks), medications, and physical therapy.

2. Are there foods that worsen POTS?
Yes, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and high-carb meals that can lower blood pressure or trigger symptoms.

3. Are compression socks effective for all POTS patients?
Most patients report symptom relief with regular use, but compression strength and style should be chosen based on a doctor’s advice.