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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

POTS

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Michigan City, IN

POTS and MCTD, anyone have this? I’ve been diagnosed with MCTD a few months ago and suspect I may also have POTS. When standing after a few minutes I get lightheaded, heart pounding, short of breath, sometimes sweat, face flushing, and sometimes my hands will tingle. I’m taking prednisone for MCTD, and when it was recently increased I felt better, but still get this feeling every few days, especially in the morning. I have a cardio appt next week and will ask about this. It’s awful!!

June 9
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MyLupusTeam

Are you asking about POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and its connection to lupus?

POTS is a condition that can occur alongside lupus as a comorbidity. It affects the autonomic nervous system, causing a rapid heart rate when moving from lying down to standing up. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness Show Full Answer

Are you asking about POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and its connection to lupus?

POTS is a condition that can occur alongside lupus as a comorbidity. It affects the autonomic nervous system, causing a rapid heart rate when moving from lying down to standing up. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.

People with lupus may develop POTS due to:

- Autonomic nervous system dysfunction caused by lupus
- Inflammation affecting blood vessels and nerves
- Lupus-related neuropathy

Managing POTS alongside lupus can involve:

- Increasing salt and fluid intake (with doctor approval)
- Wearing compression stockings
- Avoiding prolonged standing
- Gradual position changes (sitting before standing)
- Medications prescribed by your doctor

It's really important to speak with your rheumatologist or a cardiologist if you suspect you have POTS, as some lupus medications can affect heart rate and blood pressure. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to both conditions is key.

June 9

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