Frequency of Symptoms in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Abstract

Background: Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a type of dysautonomia seen most commonly in young women In addition to typical autonomic symptoms. POTS patients report a wide range of subjective complaints in multiple organ systems, though the exact frequencies are unclear. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the symptoms frequency in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) patients. Methods: An intake form consisting of a list 53 Symptoms with frequencies hand over to the Patients at our clinic, defined frequency 0 as Never, 1 as 1 time a month, 2 as 2-4 times a month, 3 as 5-7 times a month, 4 as 20-25 times a month, 5 as Daily.155 POTS patients were participated in the research study, Analysis was performed on data obtained. Results: Out of 155 POTS patients, 94% patients are females (n = 145, age 29.89 ± 12.21), 6% patients are males (n = 10, age 32.16 ± 16.32). 99 % POTS patients experienced 1 or more symptoms (average number of symptoms 32.56 ± 11.21 SD). 97% POTS patients reported 52 symptoms with frequency 5, 94% POTS patients reported 52 symptoms with frequency 4, 89% POTS patients reported 47 symptoms with frequency 3, 87% POTS patients reported 41 symptoms with frequency 2. Most common symptoms reported are Fatigue, Dizziness, Muscle aches, Neck/shoulder aches, Rapid heartbeat, Difficulty to fall asleep, Headache, Joint aches, Anxiety, Lightheadedness on standing, Blurring of vision, Impaired memory, Bloating after meals, Nausea/Vomiting, Trouble tolerating heat, SOB, Confusion, Blurring on standing, Head or room spinning, Lightheadedness, Tremulousness, Eyes sensitive to light, Feeling of weakness, Trouble tolerating cold, Difficulty staying asleep, Chest discomfort, Constipation, Excessive daytime sleepiness, Impaired memory on standing, Frequent wakening during night, Heartburn. Conclusion: First time, our research demonstrated that Persons with POTS experience an average of 32 symptoms. Majority of patients live through POTS symptoms daily.