Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system that affects blood circulation, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, rapid heart rate, and chest pain. This condition occurs when the heart rate increases abnormally upon standing, often causing discomfort and other cardiovascular symptoms.
Diagnosing POTS
Doctors diagnose POTS through a combination of medical history, symptom evaluation, and specialized tests, including:
Tilt Table Test: Monitors heart rate and blood pressure while changing positions.
Active Stand Test: Measures changes in heart rate and blood pressure from lying to standing.
Blood Tests: Check for underlying conditions contributing to symptoms.
Managing Symptoms
While chest pain in POTS is often non-cardiac, proper diagnosis is crucial. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, hydration, salt intake, physical therapy, and medications to regulate circulation. If symptoms persist, seeking medical evaluation ensures appropriate management and rule-out of serious conditions.