Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, often referred to as POTS, is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system. But what does this really mean? At its core, POTS is characterised by a rapid increase in heart rate when a person stands up, which can lead to a myriad of symptoms ranging from dizziness, fatigue, and even fainting. But there's so much more to POTS than just a list of symptoms. It’s an unpredictable condition that can change from day to day, making life for those who live with it a series of constant adjustments.
Imagine the discomfort and uncertainty of experiencing heart palpitations or sudden fatigue without any warning, or the challenge of explaining why you need to sit down immediately in the middle of a task. Daily routines, like shopping or climbing a flight of stairs, can become daunting expeditions. And socially? It can be isolating, with many feeling they constantly need to validate their invisible illness to the people around them.
The POTS Awareness Medical Card is designed to ease this burden. It acts as a quick, concise communicator, explaining to those unfamiliar with POTS the crucial details of the condition. Carrying this card is not just about personal convenience; it's about promoting understanding in a world where POTS often goes unrecognized or misunderstood.