POTS Explained: Understanding Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome
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Feeling dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up? You might be dealing with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) , a type of dysautonomia that affects millions worldwide. But fear not, POTSie (person with POTS)! This blog will unravel the mysteries of POTS, from symptoms to management, empowering you to take control of your health. Understanding the Jargon: What is POTS? POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome . Let's break it down: Postural: Relates to your body's position. Orthostatic: Refers to standing upright. Tachycardia: A rapid heart rate (over 100 beats per minute). Syndrome: A group of symptoms occurring together. In essence, POTS disrupts how your body regulates blood flow. When you stand up, blood pools in your lower body, causing your heart rate to spike to compensate. This can lead to a cascade of unpleasant symptoms, including: Dizziness or lightheadedness (#orthostaticintolerance) Fainting or near fainting Increased heart rate ...