Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a medical condition characterised by a rapid heart rate upon standing up. It affects a significant number of individuals in Australia, with an estimated prevalence of approximately 1 in 100 people. POTS can cause symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and fatigue, which can significantly impact a person’s daily life. It is important for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and management of POTS.
1. Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction
In POTS, dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system leads to imbalances in heart rate and blood flow, causing symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, and fatigue upon standing due to an overactive sympathetic system and under active parasympathetic system.
2. Blood Volume and Circulation Abnormalities
Many POTS patients experience reduced blood volume and circulation issues, such as hypovolemia and abnormal blood vessel behaviour, resulting in inadequate blood flow to the brain and extremities, which exacerbates symptoms like lightheadedness and fatigue.
3. Genetic Predisposition
Genetics may contribute to POTS development, with some individuals having a hereditary tendency towards dysautonomia. Genetic variations affecting blood vessel tone and heart rate regulation suggest a possible genetic link, often supported by family history.
4. Viral Infections or Other Triggering Events
Viral infections, including COVID-19 and Epstein-Barr virus, can trigger POTS onset in some individuals, potentially through autoimmune responses or inflammation. Other triggers may include significant physical stress, surgery, or trauma.
While the precise cause of POTS remains unclear, it is believed to be linked to dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating. Acupuncture may assist in balancing the autonomic nervous system by modulating the body’s fight-or-flight response.
One hypothesis suggests that acupuncture enhances the body’s ability to manage stress. Since individuals with POTS often exhibit an exaggerated stress response that can worsen their symptoms, acupuncture might help to soothe the nervous system and mitigate stress reactions.
POTS can also involve fluctuations in blood pressure throughout the body. Acupuncture may aid in improving the circulation of blood back to the heart, thereby helping to maintain stable blood pressure levels.
A study conducted in 2018 and published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine demonstrated that acupuncture significantly alleviated symptoms of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), such as dizziness, fatigue, and lightheadedness. Additionally, the participants reported good tolerance to the acupuncture treatment without encountering serious adverse effects (Lee et al., 2018).
Similarly, research published in Acupuncture in Medicine in 2019 indicated that acupuncture effectively improved heart rate variability among individuals with POTS. Heart rate variability is a measure of the heart’s ability to adjust its rhythm based on various activities, and higher levels are linked to improved overall health (Kumar et al., 2019).
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) necessitates individualised treatment strategies to achieve optimal results. Your health is your most important asset, making it crucial to select an acupuncturist with expertise in treating POTS. It’s important to feel assured in their qualifications and comfortable with their treatment approach.
At Komyuniti acupuncture Melbourne, we emphasise the value of personalised care. Our practitioners lead by Daniel Ooi are dedicated to collaborating with you to create a tailored acupuncture plan that specifically addresses your symptoms and concerns related to POTS. Each session is designed to restore balance and improve your overall well-being, aiming to ease the daily challenges associated with POTS. Below is an outline of what is involved in a treatment plan.
1. Evaluate & Identify
Our process begins with a thorough consultation that explores your medical history, potential causes, lifestyle influences, and current symptoms. Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine is conducted through pulse assessment and abdominal palpation.
2. Treat & Assist
Initial treatment primarily involves acupuncture, complemented by dietary and lifestyle changes. Chinese Herbal Medicine and moxibustion may also be incorporated as part of the treatment strategy.
3. Plan & Adapt
We develop a treatment plan tailored to the severity of your condition, spanning a specific timeframe. The patient’s progress is regularly monitored, and our approach is adjusted as needed.
4. Support & Achieve
Our parctitioners assist in managing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue, and help reduce stress. We also collaborate with your primary healthcare provider to ensure optimal results.
Written by Daniel Ooi
Image by: Pablo Picasso