Stanford Hospitals and Clinics: FAQ: symptoms for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)

In this resource, Dr. Karen Friday from Stanford Hospitals and Clinics provides an overview of the typical symptoms associated with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). POTS is primarily characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate when transitioning from sitting or lying down to a standing position. However, it presents a broad range of symptoms beyond just tachycardia. Patients may experience lightheadedness, dizziness, concentration difficulties, memory impairments, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and reduced stamina, particularly when standing. Dr. Friday also discusses potential underlying causes such as nerve damage from viral infections and notes the condition's complex nature and unclear etiology, highlighting its association with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome type 3 and other autonomic nervous system disturbances.