Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A Frequently Missed Diagnosis

Abstract

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a debilitating chronic illness that involves a sustained tachycardia upon standing and causes multisystem symptoms. Although POTS affects millions, in 2019, more than two-thirds of providers had never heard of POTS. Most POTS patients (83%) have reported being misdiagnosed with a psychological condition, and some wait decades for a proper diagnosis or treatment. Understanding the relationship between autonomic compensation and hemodynamic stability can help a provider recognize and manage POTS. The purpose of this report is to provide nurse practitioners with a practical guide to recognizing, diagnosing, managing, and educating patients with POTS.