Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is an increasingly recognised condition causing a rapid heart rate increase on standing, with debilitating symptoms. It is frequently underdiagnosed. Our specialist POTS packages provide accurate diagnosis and management planning.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate heart rate and blood flow when moving from lying down to standing. It is defined as a sustained increase in heart rate of 30 beats per minute or more within 10 minutes of standing, without a significant drop in blood pressure.
POTS predominantly affects women of reproductive age, although men and younger individuals can also develop the condition. Triggers can include viral infections (including post-COVID-19), physical deconditioning, autoimmune conditions, and connective tissue disorders such as hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS).
Rapid heart rate spikes when standing
Light-headedness, dizziness, or near-fainting
Extreme fatigue disproportionate to activity
Brain fog and cognitive difficulties
Nausea, often in the morning or when upright
Palpitations (sensation of racing heart)
💡 Symptoms are typically worsened by standing or upright movement and improve when lying down. Because POTS can overlap with other conditions, diagnosis often requires careful evaluation by a cardiologist or autonomic specialist.
POTS is usually diagnosed through a tilt table test or active stand test combined with 24-hour heart rate monitoring (Holter) and blood tests to rule out other causes such as thyroid disease or anaemia. Management is individualised and often includes lifestyle adjustments (increased salt and fluid intake, gradual exercise), compression garments, and medication where appropriate.
Everything you need to know about POTS FAQs and how private cardiac assessment works.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition where the heart rate increases abnormally when standing, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and palpitations.
Common symptoms include rapid heartbeat when standing, lightheadedness, fatigue, brain fog, and nausea. Symptoms typically improve when lying flat.
Doctors usually diagnose POTS using a tilt table test or active stand test to monitor heart rate and blood pressure changes, combined with ambulatory monitoring.
