Headache Management in POTS with Dr. Karissa Arca

Dr. Karissa Arca, an autonomic and headache neurologist from Mayo Clinic Arizona, discusses headache management in POTS patients, highlighting the overlap between autonomic disorders and headaches like migraine. Migraine is described as a hereditary condition stemming from brain dysfunction and not just a headache, involving symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity. While headache and migraine are common in both the general population and those with dysautonomia, precise data on their prevalence in the latter is scarce. Treatment strategies include abortive and preventive measures, with some overlap with POTS medications, such as beta blockers and anticonvulsants. Dr. Arca underscores the complexity of treatment due to potential interactions and side effects. She also mentions vagus nerve stimulation's potential benefits and advocates for education and advocacy to combat stigma in seeking treatment for both headaches and autonomic disorders.