(Postural Tachycardia Syndrome)

You can also use certain positions and movements to help relieve symptoms.This factsheet is produced by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland www.chss.org.uk Call our Advice Line for information and support tel: 0808 801 0899 or email: adviceline@chss.org.uk DRAFT DO NOT SHARE 2 What is PoTS? [...] It is worth asking your doctor, nurse, or other health professional whether you could have PoTS if: • You regularly feel sick, dizzy, or unsteady on your feet when you stand up suddenly. [...] • When you stand up, you can feel your heart racing, or are more aware of your heartbeat. [...] • These symptoms are only present when you are standing up, and start to get better when you sit down or lie down. [...] You have the right to question your diagnosis, and if you feel you have been diagnosed incorrectly, you should speak to your doctor about the possibility of further tests. Orthostatic intolerance PoTS is a form of orthostatic intolerance, which refers to any symptoms which happen in response to standing up. [...] However, PoTS is not the only form of orthostatic intolerance: If your blood pressure does drop sharply when you stand up, you may have orthostatic hypotension, a condition which is similar to PoTS. [...] PoTS is diagnosed when any of the above symptoms regularly happen when you stand up, and there is no other clear cause for them. [...] • This rise in heart rate lasts more than 30 seconds. • Your symptoms are clearly responsive to standing up • Your blood pressure is normal when you stand up, and does not drop sharply. [...] • You have had these symptoms for at least three months. If you think you may have PoTS, speak to a GP or nurse practitioner, and ask for them to investigate your symptoms. What tests are there for PoTS? [...] When you are experiencing faintness or dizziness as a result of PoTS, lying down with your legs raised higher than your head can help to improve blood flow.