Vitamin Deficiencies & POTS: Svetlana Blitshteyn, MD

Dr. Svetlana Blitshteyn's lecture at the Dysautonomia International Conference detailed the significant role of vitamin deficiencies in patients with POTS. She highlighted the importance of vitamins such as B12, D, E, and iron, which are commonly found to be deficient in POTS patients. These deficiencies can exacerbate or mimic POTS symptoms, leading to challenges in diagnosis and management. She shared studies showing the prevalence of these deficiencies in POTS patients compared to controls, emphasizing the need for thorough testing and appropriate supplementation. Her investigation into vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency in POTS revealed a small subset of patients significantly benefiting from supplementation. Thiamine is crucial for energy metabolism and nerve function, and deficiencies can lead to symptoms similar to those of POTS, creating diagnostic challenges. Dr. Blitshteyn advocated for regular testing of vitamin levels in POTS patients, particularly for those with dietary restrictions or gastrointestinal issues, to better manage and tailor treatments.