Research Update: Long Term POTS Outcomes

Dr. Jeffrey Boris presented findings from his research on the long-term outcomes of pediatric POTS patients, revealing persistent symptoms and varied effectiveness of treatments. The study, which followed 227 patients diagnosed at a young age, highlighted that fatigue, brain fog, and other symptoms were common even years after diagnosis. The research found that pharmacological treatments like stimulants and non-pharmacological interventions such as exercise and dietary changes can be beneficial, though effectiveness varies. The study also noted a higher prevalence of symptoms and severity in females, and a prevalence of comorbidities such as EDS, migraines, and MCAS. Alternative interventions like licorice root and vagus nerve stimulation were discussed, though more research is needed to confirm efficacy. Overall, patients demonstrated a moderate decline in quality of life, and the need for ongoing treatments continues for most individuals.