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Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Disordered Eating: Clarifying the Overlap
Julia Benjamin1, Leslie Sim1, Michele Tsai Owens2
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN Dr. Benjamin is now with the Department of Health Psychology, American Family Children's Hospital -UW Health, Madison, WI.
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|November 12, 2020
Summary
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is linked to disordered eating in adolescents. Many POTS patients exhibit restrictive eating, weight loss, and food sensitivities, indicating a need for integrated care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Adolescent Medicine
Background:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) affects up to 1% of adolescents, causing significant daily functional impairment.
- POTS shares overlapping symptoms and risk factors with disordered eating in youth.
- Adolescents with POTS may face an elevated risk of developing eating disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between POTS and disordered eating patterns in adolescents.
- To test the hypothesis that POTS patients exhibit higher rates of weight change, restrictive eating, and food sensitivities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 96 adolescents and young adults diagnosed with POTS.
- Analysis of self-report measures, nutritional biomarkers, and medical notes regarding eating and weight concerns.
- Descriptive and correlational statistical analyses were performed.
Main Results:
- Nearly 75% of participants reported restrictive eating behaviors.
- Over 50% experienced weight loss.
- Higher than expected rates of food allergies, celiac disease, and eating disorders were observed, with 20% requiring feeding tubes for nutritional imbalances.
Conclusions:
- Weight and eating disturbances represent significant risks for individuals with orthostatic intolerance.
- Healthcare providers must screen for eating disorders in POTS patients.
- Recommendations promoting regular, balanced eating are crucial for managing POTS patients.
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