Understanding POTS and Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for disorders involving the autonomic nervous system, which helps regulate automatic functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is one form of dysautonomia.

What is POTS?

POTS involves an abnormal increase in heart rate when moving from lying down to standing, along with symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. Symptoms may include lightheadedness, palpitations, fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, and feeling worse while upright. Experiences vary, and symptoms can overlap with other conditions.

Everyday impact

For some people, standing in line, showering, preparing food, attending school or work, or being in warm environments can be challenging. Symptoms may fluctuate. Someone may look well while managing significant symptoms that are not obvious to others.

Diagnosis and support

POTS is evaluated by healthcare professionals using medical history, symptom patterns, and appropriate measurements or testing. A heart-rate change alone does not establish a diagnosis. Other causes of similar symptoms may need to be considered. Management is individualized and should be discussed with a qualified clinician familiar with autonomic disorders.

Ways to be supportive

• Believe people when they describe symptoms that are not visible.
• Offer seating, rest breaks, or flexible participation where possible.
• Ask before assuming what a person can or cannot do.
• Respect that symptoms and energy may vary from day to day.

Trusted resources

• Dysautonomia International: POTS
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• The Ehlers-Danlos Society — information about EDS and related topics.

Explore related apparel

Visit our POTS Awareness, Invisible Illness, and Chronic Illness collections. See the Resource Library.

Educational notice: General awareness only; this page does not diagnose POTS or recommend treatment. Symptoms such as fainting, chest pain, or a racing heart can have different causes and warrant appropriate medical assessment. Call 911 for an emergency.

Last reviewed: November 8, 2026. Confirm current information with specialist organizations and clinicians.

About this information

Research and educational disclaimer: Together We Fight Apparel is not a medical organization, clinic, or healthcare provider, and our team members are not medical professionals. We provide this material for general awareness and educational research only. We do not diagnose conditions, provide medical care, recommend individual treatment, or establish a professional patient relationship. Content may be incomplete or become outdated. Always check current information with the linked organizations and speak with a licensed, qualified healthcare professional about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, or medical decisions. Do not delay or disregard professional advice because of something you read here. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.