Sometimes when there’s complicated subject matter on the line, it’s easiest to take it back to the basics—in this case, the 5W’s. It’s elementary, we know. But handy, right!? So here you have it: the 5W’s (and the H!) of POTS, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome:
The Who: POTS impacts roughly 500,000 Americans. It typically affects females, although it affects males too. The reason? It’s thought that the peripheral vasodilator (the widening of blood vessels in the outer parts of the body) caused by female sex hormones, and the vasoconstrictive (constricting of blood vessels) caused by testosterone could be responsible for the difference.
The What: It’s a disease caused by a peripheral vasoconstriction deficiency (the constriction of blood vessels, remember?). Normally, when people stand up, more than 500 milliliters of blood move from the thorax into the abdominal cavity and limbs. However for POTS patients, the peripheral vasoconstriction doesn’t respond correctly, though it’s not known why.
The When: People are more likely to develop POTS between the ages of 15 and 50 and, again, it’s more common in females.
The Where: Where should you look for symptoms? Great question, I’m glad you asked! Symptoms usually occur upon standing; patients can look for symptoms in their legs, chest, and head. Common symptoms include: head and neck discomfort, fatigue, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and nausea.
The Why: Unfortunately, little is known about POTS. It’s a disease that’s often diagnosed as panic attacks, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, and others. Consequently, distrust of doctors is common because patients do receive these psychiatric diagnoses before they’re accurately diagnosed.
The How: As in, how is it treated? Can it be treated? Luckily, 80% to 90% of people with POTS will respond to treatment, and 60% return to their previous level of function. Treatment is available for people who receive a correct diagnosis, but unfortunately, that can take several years. Treatment options include medication, including beta blockers and others, and it’s believed that drinking water can temporarily help blood pressure.
