Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Its Link to Long COVID

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate when transitioning from lying down to standing. Recent research has shown that this syndrome is significantly common among patients suffering from Long COVID symptoms, particularly among middle-aged women.

What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome?

POTS is defined as a medical condition where the heart rate increases notably when changing position from lying down to standing. Those affected experience dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, which are common symptoms among Long COVID patients.

People with this condition naturally prefer sitting or lying down due to an inability to tolerate standing, known as orthostatic intolerance. The heart can beat faster than normal even during rest or physical exertion.

The Connection Between POTS and Long COVID

A study conducted at the Karolinska Institute found that POTS appears in about one-third of patients with severe Long COVID. This percentage is significantly higher compared to pre-pandemic levels, where it was less than 1% among the Swedish population.

The study, the largest of its kind to date, showed that middle-aged women are the most affected by this condition. A total of 467 patients with severe Long COVID symptoms, who were not previously hospitalized, were examined.

Diagnosis and Treatment

One positive aspect of POTS is that it can be diagnosed through simple and inexpensive tests available at all levels of healthcare. Once diagnosed, there are treatment options aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.

Researchers recommend examining Long COVID patients who experience a significant increase in heart rate when changing position or during physical exertion, along with symptoms like dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and severe fatigue.

Future Outcomes and Recommendations

Research teams plan to conduct four- and five-year follow-ups with the patient group, as well as study patients treated in hospitals due to COVID-19. The goal of this follow-up is to assess recovery and functionality over time.

This study was funded in collaboration with Karolinska University Hospital, the Swedish Research Council, and the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation.

Conclusion

Recent research indicates that Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is notably common among Long COVID patients, especially middle-aged women. Despite its negative impact on quality of life, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve symptoms and enhance patients’ quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to screen Long COVID patients for this syndrome to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes.