Cerebral Blood Flow Findings with Marie-Claire Seeley, RN, PhD

This podcast episode features Dr. Marie-Claire Seeley discussing her research on cerebral blood flow in POTS patients, especially those with cognitive dysfunction. Using SPECT imaging, her study found significant abnormalities in brain perfusion even when patients were supine, challenging the previous understanding that these issues were only apparent when standing. These findings highlight the role of cerebral hypoperfusion in POTS-related cognitive symptoms, emphasizing the impact on quality of life comparable to other severe chronic conditions. Notably, the prefrontal and sensory-motor areas of the brain were most affected. The research suggests a need for broader recognition and validation of POTS as a serious condition with real physiological underpinnings, moving beyond misdiagnoses of functional disorders. Moreover, the study found no significant differences across various POTS triggers, indicating commonality in mechanistic pathways. This work underscores the importance of personalized management strategies and further exploration into the brain as a source of these symptoms.