What is POTS?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS), is a condition that causes an abnormal increase in your heart rate after sitting up or standing up.

How is POTS treated?

As with many conditions, there is no cure for POTS. But, there’s a lot we can do to help manage it and keep symptoms under control. The prognosis for people diagnosed with POTS is generally very positive.

For most people, lifestyle measures are key, though certain medications can also help with your symptoms if required.

It may take a bit of time to discover what works best for you – we will be able to advise and guide you on how to approach this. Allow yourself time to rest and take it easy when you need to. We recommend letting those close to you know about your condition so they can help.

Key treatments for POTS

Exercise

Following a structured exercise programme for three months has been found to help with POTS symptoms. Regular physical activity can also help regulate energy levels and boost psychological well-being. Your specialist will be able to advise on how to approach exercise.

Compression garments

Some people find wearing compression garments on their legs helps. The compression helps squeeze the blood back through the veins and into the heart more efficiently, reducing pressure on the heart.

Diet and hydration

Keeping well hydrated can be essential for people with POTS. It increases blood volume and makes it easier for the body to return blood to the heart. It’s also good to consider your diet: Eat small, regular meals and follow a healthy, balanced diet.

Medication

When lifestyle measures alone aren’t enough, or symptoms are severe, we can prescribe a number of suitable medications. These work by either helping regulate your heart rate or increasing the amount of fluid in the body. The heart is then able to work more efficiently.

Managing stress

While it can feel challenging at first, making lifestyle shifts in order to keep your stress levels in check can be key in managing any health condition, including POTS. Being mindful, making time for relaxation and rest, and getting plenty of sleep all help.

Book an appointment

Breathlessness can feel uncomfortable and unsettling, but we’re here to help put you at ease.

Our specialist will discuss your treatment in depth so you understand its purpose and how it will work. We are happy to answer any questions to ensure you feel comfortable with our treatment plan.

Call London Heart Clinic on 0203 303 0325 to book an appointment.

What our patients say

After suffering from a heart condition for a number of years I was very happy to meet Dr Ahsan, from the first consultation where he believed there was a solution I have now completed the surgery and had my final consultation with him today…

I am very grateful to have Dr Syed Ahsan as my consultant. Dr Ahsan always greets you warmly on each visit despite his busy workload. Dr Ahsan explains everything clearly and helps you to understand even the most complex medical terms…

Have a question?

Speak to our team of specialists:

0203 303 0325
Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away.
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.