Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) impacts the autonomic nervous system, regulating vital functions like heart rate and blood pressure, especially post lying to sitting actions. In POTS, an insufficient response to standing leads to symptoms such as rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, and potentially fainting.
Accurate diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, symptom assessment, and specialized tests, including a tilt-table test. Collaboration between physicians, cardiologists, and physiotherapists is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.
POTS is characterised by two main factors:
- A specific group of symptoms that frequently occur when standing upright
- A heart rate increase from horizontal to standing (or as tested on a tilt table) of at least 30 beats per minute in adults (40 beats per minute in adolescents) measured during the first 10 minutes of standing
POTS signs and symptoms vary between person and person, however some common examples are:
- Tachycardia: Heart rate exceeding 120 beats per minute.
- Lightheadedness/Dizziness: Particularly upon standing.
- Fainting or Near-Fainting Episodes: Due to inadequate blood flow to the brain.
- Fatigue: Disproportionate tiredness.
- Brain Fog: Difficulty concentrating.
Thorough medical assessment is essential to rule out alternative causes, especially due to the systemic nature of POTS. Common conditions sharing symptoms to POTS include: structural heart defects, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Physiotherapy is integral to managing POTS symptoms and improving quality of life. The plan includes:
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Exercise Rehabilitation: Gradual, graded exercises to enhance cardiovascular fitness and reduce symptoms.
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Postural Education: Guidance on minimizing symptoms during position changes.
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Hydration and Nourishment strategies with our OHL Dietitian: Recommendations for adequate fluid intake to maintain blood volume.
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Strength Training: Focused on muscles aiding venous return, enhancing overall cardiovascular function.
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Orthostatic Training: Systematic exposure to upright positions to improve tolerance.
POTS poses challenges, but physiotherapy, in collaboration with medical professionals, significantly improves outcomes. Don’t be without a team by booking in with an OHL Physio or an OHL Dietitian this week! Book with our friendly admin team via 9431 5955 or you can book anytime on our Client Portal via our website.
