What Does It Mean?
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system that leads to an excessive heart rate increase upon standing. This dysfunction can cause dizziness, fatigue, and exercise intolerance, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. POTS is often associated with dysregulated blood flow, dehydration, and immune dysfunction.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Dysautonomia – Impaired autonomic regulation leads to abnormal cardiovascular responses.
- Chronic Inflammation & Immune Dysfunction – Increased inflammatory markers contribute to endothelial dysfunction.
- Electrolyte & Hydration Imbalances – Inadequate fluid and electrolyte levels impair circulation.
- Hormonal Imbalances – Adrenal dysfunction affects blood pressure regulation.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction & Energy Deficits – Reduced ATP production contributes to fatigue and weakness.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Lightheadedness and dizziness upon standing
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) with postural changes
- Chronic fatigue and exercise intolerance
- Cold hands and feet due to poor circulation
- Brain fog and cognitive impairment
- Increased susceptibility to dehydration
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Albumin | Decreased | 4.50-5.00 g/dL |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Decreased | 45.00-100.00 IU/L |
| Anion Gap | Altered | 7.00-12.00 mEq/L |
| Basophil % | Increased | 0.00-1.00 % |
| Blood (Urinalysis) | Positive | Negative |
| Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | Normal or Decreased | 10.00-16.00 mg/dL |
| C-Peptide | Normal | 1.10-2.10 ng/ml |
| C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) | Increased | 0.00-0.55 mg/L |
| Calcium | Normal | 8.90-9.50 mg/dL |
| Carbon Dioxide | Normal or Decreased | 25.00-30.00 mEq/L |
| Chloride | Normal or Decreased | 100.00-106.00 mEq/L |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Normal or Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Cortisol Total, Serum | Increased | 11.5-15.00 µg/dL |
| DHEA Sulfate (Male) | Normal or Decreased | 150.00-250.00 µg/dL |
| Eosinophil % | Normal or Decreased | 0.00-3.00 % |
| Estradiol-E2 | Normal | 24.00-39.00 pg/mL |
| Estrogen (Female) | Normal | 80-250pg/mL |
| Ferritin | Decreased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Globulin | Normal | 2.40-2.80 g/dL |
| Glucose, Serum | Normal or Decreased | 75.00-86.00 mg/dL |
| Glutathione | Decreased | 373.00-838.00 µM |
More labs can be used for diagnosis.
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Management of POTS involves improving autonomic regulation, optimizing hydration, and reducing inflammation.
Supplement Protocol:
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports immune function and reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Enhances hydration and electrolyte balance | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports urinary health and prevents infection | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Comprehensive probiotic support | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Immune & antioxidant support | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports microbiome balance | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Mitochondrial & cardiovascular support | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Antioxidant & gut barrier protection | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle function & relaxation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Immunoglobulin support for gut healing | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports gut lining & joint health | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Neurotransmitter & adrenal support | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation & energy production | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Immune system support | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Hormonal & detoxification support | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Antifungal & microbiome support | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Supports digestion & enzymatic function | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Antioxidant & cellular detoxification | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Nitric oxide & vascular health support | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Optimize Hydration: Increase fluid intake and electrolytes to improve blood volume.
- Gradual Postural Changes: Encourage slow transitions from lying to standing.
- Strengthen Autonomic Function: Implement gentle physical activity like recumbent cycling.
- Reduce Inflammatory Triggers: Follow an anti-inflammatory diet and avoid processed foods.
- Manage Stress & Sleep: Prioritize restorative sleep and stress management techniques.