Standing heart rates reveal overlap between long COVID and POTS
Dizziness, fatigue, brain fog and a racing heart. They're commonly associated with long COVID, but new Adelaide University research suggests that for some people, these symptoms may also be indications of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a debilitating and difficult-to-diagnose condition.
A pioneering Adelaide University study has revealed intriguing links between long COVID, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and the autonomic nervous system. Researchers compared heart rate changes, symptoms and immune profiles among people with POTS, long COVID and healthy controls. Astonishingly, nearly two-thirds (62.5%) of the long COVID participants exhibited the diagnostic criteria for POTS.
The findings, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, could shed light on the often-mysterious symptoms experienced by those with long COVID while aiding better diagnosis and treatment of POTS. The study measured autonomic symptoms, heart rate response, inflammatory markers and autoantibodies, demonstrating that a standing test could reveal key POTS indicators.
Lead researcher Dr. Marie-Claire Seeley emphasized the importance of recognizing the overlap, as it could help clinicians assess and treat POTS more effectively. The research also uncovered early biological clues, suggesting low-grade inflammation may play a role in POTS. This breakthrough could significantly improve the lives of those grappling with debilitating symptoms, enabling them to access targeted treatments and support.
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