POTS: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

30 flashcards covering key concepts about POTS, dysautonomia, and associated conditions.

What does POTS stand for?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome.

What is Dysautonomia?

A broad term describing medical conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system.

What parts make up the Autonomic Nervous System?

Parasympathetic, sympathetic, and enteric.

What are common conditions that can affect the Autonomic Nervous System?

Type 2 Diabetes, Amyloidosis, Autoimmune conditions, Genetic conditions, Multiple System Atrophy, Poisons, Trauma, Tumors.

What are some signs and symptoms of ANS conditions?

Changes in heart rhythm, dizziness, trouble swallowing, GI issues, bladder incontinence, sweating variations, heat intolerance.

What does 'Postural' refer to in POTS?

The position the patient's body is in when experiencing symptoms.

What does 'Orthostatic' mean in the context of POTS?

Related to the patient standing upright.

What heart rate defines Tachycardia?

A heart rate that is over 100 beats per minute.

What is the estimated number of Americans affected by POTS?

Approximately one to three million, potentially doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic.

In which demographic is POTS more common?

More common in women than men and more likely to develop in adolescents and young adults.

Normally, what does the ANS do regarding heart rate and blood pressure?

Balances heart rate and blood pressure in any position.

What causes blood pooling in POTS?

The body's inability to constrict blood vessels to return blood to the heart and brain.

What is one reason for elevated heart rate in POTS patients?

Blood pooling in lower extremities.

What are common symptoms of POTS?

Tachycardia, palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, brain fog, headache, nausea.

What are the criteria for diagnosing POTS?

Increase of at least 30 bpm when going from laying to standing within 10 minutes.

How does orthostatic hypotension differ from POTS?

Hypotension shows a drop in blood pressure upon standing, whereas POTS shows an increase in heart rate.

What tests are used for POTS evaluation?

Orthostatic Vital Signs, NASA Lean Test, ECG, Holter Monitor, Tilt Table Test.

How much fluid intake is recommended for POTS patients?

2 to 4 liters of water daily.

What dietary change is recommended for POTS patients?

Increased salt intake up to 10,000 mg a day.

What is a common medication class used for POTS?

Beta Blockers.

What is Ivabradine used for in POTS patients?

To decrease heart rate when beta blockers fail.

What is Pyridostigmine used for in POTS treatment?

It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that increases parasympathetic activity.

What is the dosing range for Midodrine?

Start with 2.5 mg two to three times a day, max 10 mg three times a day.

What side effect is associated with Fludrocortisone?

Hypokalemia.

What does the NASA Lean Test measure?

Heart rate and blood pressure with change of position.

What is one of the lifestyle management strategies for POTS?

Eating small frequent meals.

What side effects are common with Beta Blockers?

Low heart rate, fatigue, dizziness.

What are signs of syncope in patients with POTS?

Lightheadedness, presyncope, dizziness.

What is the max dose of Pyridostigmine for POTS treatment?

60 mg three times a day.

What should patients be educated about regarding Fludrocortisone usage?

It may cause hypertension especially when lying down.

What is one key symptom to monitor in POTS patients?

Fatigue, also known as exercise intolerance or post exertional malaise.

What should patients with POTS maintain for good health?

Good sleep hygiene and education about their condition.