Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system that affects a person’s blood circulation. It is characterized by a rapid increase in heart rate after standing up or lying down, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, fainting, and weakness. While POTS is not a new condition, there is increasing concern about its link with long Covid, a condition that affects some people after they have recovered from Covid-19.
Causes and Symptoms of POTS
The exact cause of POTS is unknown, but it is believed to be related to problems with the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the body’s involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. When a person with POTS stands up or sits up, blood tends to pool in the legs, leading to a drop in blood pressure and inadequate blood flow to the brain. In response, the heart beats faster to try to compensate, resulting in the symptoms of POTS.
Symptoms of POTS include lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, fatigue, and weakness. Some people with POTS may also experience digestive problems, purple discoloration of the hands and feet, and blurred or tunnel vision. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, making it difficult to diagnose the condition.
Link between POTS and Covid-19
With the rise of Covid-19 cases worldwide, researchers have become increasingly interested in understanding the relationship between POTS and Covid-19. Studies have shown that some Covid-19 long-haulers experience symptoms that are similar to those of POTS patients. These symptoms include dizziness, heart palpitations, and fatigue, among others. While the exact link between POTS and Covid-19 is still being investigated, researchers believe that the virus may damage the autonomic nervous system, leading to POTS-like symptoms in some patients.
Furthermore, Covid-19 is known to cause blood clots, which can contribute to POTS symptoms. When blood clots form, they can block the flow of blood to the brain and other organs, leading to a drop in blood pressure and rapid heart rate. This can trigger POTS symptoms in people who are already predisposed to the condition.
Treatment for POTS
There is currently no cure for POTS, but treatment can help manage the symptoms. Treatment options include lifestyle changes such as increasing salt and fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding triggers that worsen symptoms such as standing up quickly. Medications such as beta-blockers and fludrocortisone may also be prescribed to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
In the case of Covid-19 long-haulers with POTS-like symptoms, treatment options may vary depending on the severity and duration of symptoms. Treatment may include physical therapy, counseling to manage stress and anxiety, and medications to manage symptoms.
