Understanding PoTS: A Guide for Better Awareness

Living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) can be a daily challenge. This condition affects the body’s ability to regulate blood flow and heart rate when changing posture, particularly when moving from sitting or lying down to standing up. For those who experience PoTS, symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, fainting, and fatigue are common. It’s a condition that can be hard to explain to others, especially in situations where symptoms come on suddenly. This is where our I Have PoTS card can be a helpful resource.

These single-sided cards are designed to provide clear and immediate awareness of your condition. While they are not personalised or official ID cards, they serve as a practical tool to inform others about PoTS, helping you navigate situations where you might need assistance or understanding.

What Is PoTS

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system. This system is responsible for managing automatic bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. For people with PoTS, the heart rate increases significantly—by at least 30 beats per minute in adults—when moving to an upright position. This happens without a corresponding drop in blood pressure, making it distinct from other orthostatic conditions.

Symptoms can include:

• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Fainting
• Chronic fatigue
• Nausea
• Difficulty concentrating (often referred to as brain fog)

The severity and frequency of these symptoms can vary from person to person. Some may experience mild symptoms, while others may find their daily lives significantly impacted. Despite being relatively common, PoTS often goes unrecognised or misunderstood, making education and awareness crucial.

Why Carry an I Have PoTS Card?

Carrying an I Have PoTS card can make a big difference in everyday situations. Here’s how these cards can help:

Immediate Communication
PoTS symptoms can appear suddenly, leaving you unable to explain what’s happening. The card provides instant clarification to those around you, such as colleagues, friends, or even strangers. If you feel faint or unwell in public, it can save precious time by informing others about your condition.

Promotes Understanding
PoTS is an invisible condition, which means others may not immediately realise the challenges you face. The card acts as a simple, effective way to educate people about your situation without requiring you to explain it during moments of distress.

Peace of Mind
Carrying the card offers reassurance that if you experience symptoms, those around you will know what to do—or at least better understand why you need to sit down, rest, or get help. It’s a small but valuable way to feel more confident when out and about.

Encourages Conversations
Awareness is the first step to understanding, and having this card can lead to more meaningful discussions about PoTS. Whether it’s with friends, family, or coworkers, the card serves as a prompt to share more about the condition and the impact it has on your life.

Where Our PoTS Card Can Be Useful

The I Have PoTS card is particularly helpful in situations where communication might be difficult or where you need others to be aware of your condition quickly. Some examples include:

• Public transport: If you’re feeling unwell and need to sit down, the card can help explain why you can’t give up your seat.
• Workplaces: It’s a discreet way to inform colleagues or supervisors about your condition, ensuring you have the support you need.
• Social settings: Whether at a busy event or a quiet gathering, the card can reduce the need for repeated explanations.
• Emergency situations: In case of a medical emergency, the card provides immediate context to first responders or bystanders.

Our I Have PoTS card is simple yet effective. The front features a vibrant design with the words I Have PoTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) prominently displayed. The medical symbol is included to make the card instantly recognisable. While it’s not a medical ID, the straightforward messaging ensures that others can quickly grasp what the card represents. The durable, biodegradable plastic ensures it lasts through daily use while being eco-friendly.

At The Card Project UK, we understand the importance of creating products that are practical and reliable. Our cards are the size of a credit card, making them easy to carry in a wallet, purse, or even your pocket. The design is clear and professional, ensuring it gets noticed when it matters most. These cards are also made from biodegradable plastic, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.

Having an I Have PoTS card doesn’t just benefit you—it helps raise awareness about the condition as a whole. Every time you use the card, you contribute to educating others, breaking down misconceptions, and fostering greater understanding of PoTS.

A Small Step Towards Greater Confidence: Buuy Your PoTS Card by The Card Project UK Today

Living with PoTS can feel isolating at times, but tools like this card can help bridge the gap between your needs and the understanding of those around you. It’s not just about managing symptoms; it’s about empowering yourself to feel supported and understood in everyday situations.

If you or someone you know lives with PoTS, consider getting an I Have PoTS card today. It’s a practical, affordable way to improve communication, reduce stress, and promote awareness. Order yours now and take the first step towards making life with PoTS just a little bit easier.