Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is an autonomic nervous system disorder affecting millions of people throughout the U.S. and worldwide. While the disease doesn’t discriminate based on age or gender, it is commonly reported in female patients who are in a fertile age range.
SET Physical Therapy has treated many patients with POTS, and we wanted to share some critical information and guidance with you about what to do if you or your loved one suffers from postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.
Types of POTS
POTS can be broken down into two categories: primary and secondary.
- Primary or idiopathic POTS occurs on its own without the presence of accompanying medical conditions.
- Secondary POTS is concurrent with one or more other medical conditions, such as a virus or autoimmune disorder, which affect or induce the symptoms of POTS.
Diagnosing POTS
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome is often misdiagnosed. We recommend all patients perform a Tilt Table Test to confirm whether or not the disorder impacts you.
One of the main diagnostic factors for POTS is an increased heart rate of 30-40+ beats per minute or over 120 bpm that take place in a ten minute period of standing without orthostatic hypotension.
Although abnormal heart rate increase while standing is the primary diagnostic factor, many other symptoms act as warning signs of POTS. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty exercising;
- Heart palpitations;
- Headaches;
- Lack of concentration;
- Lightheadedness; and
- Nausea.
Patients may also see their legs change color to a red-purple hue when they stand that returns to normal once they sit back down.
Treatment
No one patient is the same, so it’s important to speak with an experienced physician before you begin a treatment plan. That said, some of the typical ways to treat POTS include maintaining a healthy diet, increasing water and sodium intake, exercise and medication.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is one of the best treatment options for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Programs such as Dr. Benjamin Levine’s Dallas POTS Exercise Protocol and the modified approach developed by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) have seen great success in treating sufferers of POTS.
These programs utilize the following techniques:
- Heart Rate Monitored Training with specific zones of training. If the person is on a Beta Blocker, they use Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE). The goal is the build your cardiovascular tolerance.
- Weight Lifting and strength training exercises, mainly for the lower body and core. Lower body muscles act as pumps when they contract to return blood to your heart. Increased leg muscle mass means more blood returned with each step you take.
Besides monitored heart rate training and weight lifting, the programs often include mobility exercises to increase circulation.
Can I Do the Program Alone?
Yes! However, many patients feel the need for support early on to help them break through the initial sense of hopelessness. When you work with a supportive physical therapist who encourages you through the feelings and symptoms, it can be beneficial.
Visit Dysautonomia International to find out more.
You aren’t alone in your condition, so let us join you on your road to recovery. We would love to help you If you’re ready to seek POTS physical therapy treatment, schedule an appointment with SetPT today.
