Do you often feel lightheaded or experience dizziness? Perhaps even deal with migraines, extreme fatigue, or fainting episodes. These symptoms can be very confusing and bewildering, frequently being misdiagnosed as anxiety or other neurological disorders. However, there is a lesser-known condition that can cause all of these symptoms, known as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, or POTS for short.
@drautoimmune #pots and #potssyndrome is commonly #misdiagnosed and although #tachycardia is common it can vary day to day and symptoms like #anxiety or #migraines may not be connected. #betablockers are #standardofcare but are they addressing #rootcause issues? #functionalmedicine is designed to let your health soar and #drautoimmune ♬ original sound - drautoimmune
What is POTS?
POTS can be classified as a disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, causing dysfunctions like an elevated heart rate and hindering the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. It manifests as an excessively fast heartbeat, unusual dizziness, particularly when standing up, as well as a range of other frustrating symptoms.
A Hidden Cause: Autoimmunity
A study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association in 2019 demonstrated that 90% of people being diagnosed with POTS had autoantibodies attacking their brain stem. This study suggests that POTS has links to autoimmune activity and could be, at least in part, an autoimmune condition. In other words, your immune system is attacking your body, leading to symptoms that can cause a lot of strife in your daily life.
Could You Have an Incorrect Diagnosis?
The symptoms of POTS can often be dismissed as anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, or even multiple sclerosis. Sometimes, people suffering from migraines or cognitive issues might experience brain fog or uncontrolled weight loss, all of which might indicate the real issue stems from POTS.
Finding the Root Cause
Obtaining a POTS diagnosis with tests like a tilt table test and an active stand test is undoubtedly valuable, but identifying what caused your symptoms in the first place is equally important. Be it chronic inflammation, an autoimmune trigger, or another underlying health condition, understanding the many factors contributing to the symptoms is the most essential part of restoring your physical health and quality of life.
Next Steps
Does this sound like you? Finding a qualified physician who specializes in POTS and autonomic disorders is a great starting point, and here at Dr. Autoimmune, we’re certainly capable of helping you create a care plan that addresses the root problem. Regardless of the specifics, lifestyle alterations, diet, or a more in-depth tackling of immune issues can greatly improve your health.
POTS is a multifaceted condition, but always remember that knowledge is power. If these unexplained symptoms are something you’ve suffered with for quite a while without any answers, now is the time to find the solutions that you’ve desperately been waiting for. Take the first step and book an initial consultation with our autoimmune experts today!
