POTS Treatment Guide – Simple Ways to Manage Symptoms

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) can make everyday tasks feel like a marathon. The good news is there are clear steps you can take right now to lower dizziness, reduce heart‑rate spikes, and improve energy levels.

Everyday Lifestyle Hacks for POTS

Stay hydrated. Aim for at least 2‑3 liters of water a day. Adding a pinch of salt (or an electrolyte drink) helps keep blood volume up, which can stop the sudden drop in pressure that triggers symptoms.

Eat small, frequent meals. Large meals dump blood into your gut and worsen POTS signs. Try 5‑6 mini‑meals with balanced protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Compression gear. Knee‑high or waist‑level compression stockings squeeze the veins in your legs, pushing blood back toward the heart. Start with a mild pressure (15‑20 mmHg) and see how you feel.

Exercise wisely. Gentle recumbent bike work or rowing for 10–20 minutes most days can strengthen the cardiovascular system without overloading it. Gradually increase time as tolerance improves.

Mind your posture. When moving from lying to standing, do it slowly. Sit on the edge of the bed for a minute before standing up, and keep your legs crossed or flexed while you’re seated for long periods.

Medical Therapies You Might Consider

If lifestyle tweaks aren’t enough, doctors often prescribe medicines that target specific POTS mechanisms. Beta‑blockers (like propranolol) slow the heart rate and can calm pounding pulses. Fludrocortisone helps your body retain salt and water, raising blood volume.

Midodrine is another option; it tightens blood vessels to boost pressure when you stand. Some patients benefit from Pyridostigmine, which improves nerve signaling that controls heart rate.

It’s important to work with a clinician who knows POTS, because each person responds differently. Start on the lowest dose, track how you feel, and adjust as needed.

Beyond pills, some specialists suggest IV saline infusions for severe cases, especially when dehydration is hard to manage at home. Physical therapy focused on tilt‑training can also teach your body to adapt gradually.

Remember, the goal isn’t to cure POTS overnight but to build a routine that keeps symptoms low enough to live normally. Keep a simple diary of fluid intake, meals, exercise, and symptom scores – it helps you spot what works best.

If you’re looking for more detailed articles on related health topics, explore our posts on medication safety, blood‑pressure tips, and lifestyle adjustments. Each one offers practical advice that can complement your POTS plan.