Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) /Orthostatic Intolerance (OI) management
1- Try to drink 2-3 litres of water daily.
2- Include a good amount of salt in your diet (specific dosage recommendations vary).
3- Avoid alcohol as it can lead to dehydrations and dilation of your blood vessels.
4- Rest with your feet up for the most efficient rest. However, make sure that you occasionally rest
in an upright seated position also. This will allow your body to condition itself to these postural
changes.
5- When needing to stand for prolonged periods, shift your weight side to side or do some heel
raises.
6- When needing to sit for prologued periods, do some seated heel raises or move your legs from
time to time. Ideally get up from time to time. Also try to lean back rather than sit completely
upright.
7- Avoid spending extended periods in the heat or direct sunlight.
8- Engage in regular exercise:
A- Cardiovascular exercise will improve your heart, pulmonary, circulatory and skeletal function
and enhance your body’s neurological messaging capacity. Start with exercise types such as
recumbent cycling or cool water based activity and gradually progress to more upright types
of activity (eg. walking, jogging, sport etc.).
B- Strength training will increase your muscle bulk and muscle activation capacity therefore
allowing these muscles to be used as “pumps” for blood return. It is especially important to
maintain good leg strength through a resistance exercise program provided by your Exercise
Physiologist.
9- Avoid exercising in the heat.
10- Compression stockings such as the Skins range can help improve circulation and improve
recovery post exercise. They can be worn for exercise recovery but also for long periods of
sitting or standing. Ask you therapist for further information and cheap stockists.
11- Some medications may aid in the management of severe cases of OI and POTS. Your GP and/or
Specialist will be able to inform you if this is the right avenue for you.
If you have any questions about OI or POTS, the above information or would like some more
guidance please contact Active Health Clinic on 0413558555 or email info@activehealthclinic.com.au