Deficiencies, Nerve Damage, and POTS

POTS - Potential Links to Deficiencies and Nerve Damage

Have you ever experienced feeling dizzy or lightheaded upon standing up too quickly? This is a common sensation known as orthostatic intolerance, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. One condition that can cause orthostatic intolerance is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which is characterized by a rapid increase in heart rate upon standing up.

While the exact cause of POTS is still unknown, research has suggested that there may be a link between deficiencies, nerve damage, and the development of POTS.

Let's start by looking at deficiencies. A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate, can cause anemia. Anemia is a condition in which there is a shortage of red blood cells or hemoglobin, which can lead to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. This, in turn, can cause fatigue, weakness, and dizziness upon standing up.

Research has suggested that anemia may be more prevalent in individuals with POTS than in the general population. In a study published in the journal PLOS One, researchers found that out of 127 patients with POTS, 28% had anemia. Additionally, the study found that those with anemia had a higher heart rate upon standing up, indicating a greater severity of orthostatic intolerance.

Another potential link between deficiencies and POTS is vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease and autoimmune disorders. Research has suggested that vitamin D may play a role in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, which controls heart rate and blood pressure.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that individuals with POTS were more likely to have vitamin D deficiency than those without POTS. Additionally, the study found that those with POTS who had vitamin D deficiency had a greater severity of symptoms, including increased heart rate and blood pressure upon standing up.

Nerve Damage

Moving on to nerve damage, POTS has been linked to a condition called small fiber neuropathy (SFN). SFN is a condition in which the small nerve fibers that carry pain and temperature sensations become damaged. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and tingling.

Research has suggested that SFN may be more prevalent in individuals with POTS than in the general population. In a study published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that out of 80 patients with POTS, 41% had SFN. Additionally, the study found that those with SFN had a higher heart rate upon standing up, indicating a greater severity of orthostatic intolerance.

It's important to note that while deficiencies and nerve damage may be associated with POTS, they are not necessarily the sole cause of the condition. POTS is a complex condition that likely involves multiple factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and immune dysfunction.

How to Take Action

So, what can you do if you have POTS or suspect that you may have it? First and foremost, it's important to see a healthcare professional who can properly diagnose and treat the condition. Treatment may include lifestyle modifications, such as increasing fluid and salt intake and engaging in regular exercise, as well as medications to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

If you have a known deficiency, such as iron or vitamin D deficiency, it's important to work with your healthcare professional to address it. This may involve taking supplements or making dietary changes.

In conclusion, while the exact cause of POTS is still unknown, research has suggested that deficiencies and nerve damage may play a role in the development of the condition.

If you want a step - by - step guide on how to address nutrient deficiencies and begin to target your POTS, click here.