Identifying and Understanding Low Blood Pressure and POTS Symptoms

Feeling dizziness, seeing dark tunnel, and experiencing nausea are concerning symptoms that can significantly impact your daily life. In my case, I felt a sharp rise in body temperature to 42.3℃, which my mother was worried about as a sign of high fever. Yet, I was able to walk normally in a couple of minutes and eat without any difficulty. This scenario is not uncommon and can be attributed to various factors, including low blood pressure and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).

Low Blood Pressure and Its Symptoms

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can cause dizziness and nausea when standing in one spot for an extended period. This is because the blood flow to the brain and other organs is reduced when you stand. Symptoms of low blood pressure include:

Fainting or near fainting (syncope) Dizziness or lightheadedness Nausea and vomiting Blurred vision or visual disturbances Sweating Weakness Confusion or cognitive dysfunction

POTS: A Specific Type of Low Blood Pressure

POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and is a specific form of autonomic dysfunction. It is characterized by a significant increase in heart rate upon standing, combined with low blood pressure. POTS symptoms include:

Dizziness and lightheadedness Blurred vision or fainting spells Nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting Chest pain Mouth dryness and extreme perspiration Swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs Poor concentration and mental fogginess

Experiencing Symptoms After Standing

As you mentioned, standing for an extended period can trigger these symptoms. The key is to avoid standing still for too long, and to ensure your knees are slightly bent to maintain proper blood circulation. Taking frequent breaks and moving around can help reduce the impact of these symptoms.

Professional Medical Evaluation

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a doctor. A medical professional can perform tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Here are some tests you might undergo:

Blood pressure monitoring Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart function Tilt table test Complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia or other blood disorders 24-hour blood pressure monitoring

Once the exact cause is identified, your doctor can provide appropriate treatment options. For low blood pressure, lifestyle changes such as:

Increasing salt and fluid intake Wearing compression stockings Sipping on small amounts of water or juice Performing pelvic floor exercises Engaging in regular, low-intensity exercise

Might be recommended. For POTS, additional treatments such as:

Blood pressure medications Vagal maneuvers (e.g., hanging head over a bucket of cold water) Blood volume expansion therapy Neuromodulatory therapy (e.g., nerve stimulators)

Conclusion

Your symptoms are significant and require a professional medical evaluation. Low blood pressure and POTS are serious conditions that can affect your quality of life. By seeking help from a healthcare provider, you can receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment, leading to improved health and well-being.