122: What is POTS and When Is It an Emergency? With Guest Dr. Alexis Cutchins

Rapid Response RN

Behind every POTS diagnosis is a patient who had to fight for answers. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is often misdiagnosed because its symptoms mimic so many other conditions. In fact, it is often dismissed as “just anxiety”, but anxiety is a secondary side effect of the fact that the patient keeps having syncopal episodes without explanation.

To dig deeper into its diagnosis and treatment challenges, Sarah turned to Dr. Alexis Cutchins, cardiologist and co-author of a key article on the management of POTS. In this episode, Dr. Cutchins breaks down the symptoms, possible causes and contributing factors of this complex and misunderstood disorder. She also explores treatment strategies and new research that could improve patient outcomes.

Tune in to hear Dr. Cutchins’ insights into how healthcare professionals can better recognize POTS and advocate for patients!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)?
• Causes and contributing factors of POTS
• Common symptoms of POTS
• Diagnostic tests and diagnostic challenges
• The treatment process and effective strategies
• New developments in POTS research
• Treating POTS in an emergency situation
• How to better manage and advocate for patients

Read Dr. Cutchins' article, Narrative Review of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: Associated Conditions and Management Strategies: https://www.uscjournal.com/articles/narrative-review-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome-associated-conditions-and

POTS patients can find more information and resources here:

https://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/

Print this guide to plan for POTS emergencies with your physician!

https://supertmastcell.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SuperT-PatientReferenceGuide-2024.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

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