Thread by @drclairetaylor

POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) in #LongCovid & #MECFS

I have many patients who have lived with undiagnosed POTS for years.
This is as disabling as heart failure.
Once diagnosed&treated I have patients whose lives have been drastically changed. #MedTwitter

The test is so simple.
The same as a lying/standing BP but for 10 minutes and not 3.
Full instructions here batemanhornecenter.org/wp-content/upl…
This can be done at home and best results I think are in usual environment (patients should always check this test is suitable before doing)

The treatment is with medications that have been used for years. They can make a massive difference to quality of life.
There is a knack to picking the correct medication for individual patients. But the main thing is getting the diagnosis.

‘Sinus tachycardia’ is seen as a benign phenomenon. It is not always. And it isn’t anxiety if it occurs on standing.
It is disabling.
Imagine-every time you stand up to do the dishes your heart rate is 130bpm. This should be treated as it’s very unpleasant for people.

So a wee plea from me- if you have long Covid or ME patients please check for POTS.
Quite a lot of the population now have POTS due to Covid-19. It is poorly taught in medical education.
You can change your patients life. What is better than that as a Doctor? ❤️

It is also very validating for patients to know the cause of their symptoms.
Amazing information for patients and doctors here.

potsuk.org

Should add- I’m hugely grateful for all my colleagues- I just feel with this particular condition we need to raise awareness and get better at managing pots. It’s not taught well in medical education #MedTwitter

Adding this-
POTS is not just tachycardia (fast heart rate) it so so much more.
Source on photo. I think it’s a great representation.