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Updated: May 7, 2026
14:09
Tilt Testing with Combined Lower Body Negative Pressure: a "Gold Standard" for Measuring Orthostatic Tolerance
Published on: March 21, 2013
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
Bharat Sidhu1, Nonyelum Obiechina, Noman Rattu
1Department of General Medicine, NHS, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|September 18, 2013
Summary
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) involves autonomic dysfunction with an exaggerated heart rate increase upon standing. Recent consensus defines POTS, aiding its recognition and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Autonomic Nervous System Research
Background:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a complex condition involving autonomic dysfunction.
- It is characterized by an exaggerated sympathetic response when moving to an upright position.
- POTS has been historically under-recognized in clinical practice.
Observation:
- A significant increase in heart rate (over 30/min, or 40/min in adolescents) within 10 minutes of standing is a key diagnostic criterion.
- This heart rate increase occurs in the absence of hypotension, arrhythmias, or other causes of tachycardia.
- Two illustrative cases of POTS are presented to highlight clinical presentation.
Findings:
- The study discusses the consensus definition of POTS, standardizing diagnostic criteria.
- It explores the underlying pathogenesis and pathophysiology contributing to POTS symptoms.
- Epidemiological data and current management strategies for POTS are reviewed.
Implications:
- Improved recognition and standardized diagnostic criteria for POTS are crucial.
- Understanding POTS pathogenesis and pathophysiology can lead to targeted therapies.
- Effective management strategies can improve the quality of life for POTS patients.
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