Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is caused by multiple potential factors, often involving the autonomic nervous system and blood flow regulation. The exact causes are complex and can vary between individuals, but key causes and triggers include:
- Infections or viral illnesses such as COVID-19 or glandular fever, which may trigger immune and autonomic nervous system changes.
- Surgery or physical trauma, including concussions, which can disrupt the autonomic nervous system.
- Hormonal changes during life events like pregnancy, puberty, or menopause.
- Connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- Reduced blood volume (hypovolemia) leading to inadequate blood flow.
- Hyperadrenergic states with elevated norepinephrine.
- Genetic factors and chronic illnesses like diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
- Some cases may be secondary to other conditions such as cancer or long COVID.
POTS symptoms often arise after a triggering event but can also develop gradually or without a clear trigger. These factors disrupt the normal heart rate and blood pressure regulation upon standing, causing symptoms of POTS.
