Here’s a glossary of terms related to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS):

1. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A condition characterized by a rapid increase in heart rate that occurs upon standing up from a sitting or lying down position.
2. Orthostatic Intolerance: Inability to tolerate standing upright for prolonged periods due to symptoms like lightheadedness, palpitations, and fatigue.
3. Tachycardia: A rapid heart rate, often defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute.
4. Dysautonomia: Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
5. Autonomic Nervous System: The part of the nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary body functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
6. Sympathetic Nervous System: The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the “fight or flight” response, which increases heart rate and blood pressure.
7. Parasympathetic Nervous System: The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the “rest and digest” response, which slows heart rate and promotes digestion.
8. Tilt Table Test: A test used to diagnose POTS by monitoring changes in heart rate and blood pressure while the patient is tilted at different angles.
9. Hyperadrenergic POTS: A subtype of POTS characterized by elevated levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that affects heart rate and blood pressure.
10. Neurocardiogenic Syncope: A condition characterized by fainting (syncope) due to a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, often triggered by standing.
11. Hydration: Maintaining adequate fluid intake to help prevent symptoms of POTS, such as low blood volume and lightheadedness.
12. Salt Loading: Increasing salt intake to help retain fluid and expand blood volume, which can improve symptoms of POTS.
13. Beta-Blockers: Medications that block the effects of adrenaline, helping to lower heart rate and reduce symptoms of POTS.
14. Fludrocortisone: A medication that helps retain salt and water, increasing blood volume and improving symptoms of POTS.
15. Compression Garments: Tight-fitting clothing that applies pressure to the legs, helping to prevent blood pooling and improve circulation in POTS.
16. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of therapy that helps patients change negative thought patterns and behaviors, which can be helpful in managing chronic illnesses like POTS.
17. Graded Exercise Therapy (GET): A structured exercise program that gradually increases in intensity, often used to improve symptoms of POTS.
18. Dysautonomia International: A non-profit organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals with autonomic nervous system disorders, including POTS.
19. Brain Fog: A symptom of POTS characterized by difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mental confusion.
20. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Symptoms affecting the digestive system, such as nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain, which can occur in some patients with POTS.
21. Joint Hypermobility: Increased range of motion in the joints, which is common in individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and can be associated with POTS.
22. Co-Morbidity: The presence of two or more medical conditions in the same individual, such as POTS and EDS.
23. Quality of Life: The overall well-being and satisfaction with life, which can be impacted by chronic conditions like POTS.
24. Dyspnea: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, which can occur in some individuals with POTS, especially during physical activity.
25. Chronic Illness: A long-lasting medical condition that requires ongoing management, such as POTS.