How to advocate for yourself when seeking POTS treatment after COVID

Are you struggling with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) after recovering from COVID-19? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the healthcare system and advocate for yourself when seeking treatment? You’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to effectively communicate your needs and work with healthcare professionals to get the support and care you deserve. Whether you’re a POTS patient or caregiver, these strategies will help you feel empowered in your journey towards recovery. So let’s dive in!

What is POTS and what is the cause of it?

POTS, or primary autonomic dysfunction syndrome, is a neurological disorder that causes widespread symptoms and can be very debilitating. POTS is most commonly caused by a problem with the autonomic nervous system, which controls the body’s automatic functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. There is no single cause of POTS, but it can often be triggered by viruses, bacteria, injury, or surgery.

If you are diagnosed with POTS, your doctor will likely recommend treatment to improve your symptoms. Treatment options include antibiotics, corticosteroids (such as prednisone), splenectomy (slicing off part of the spleen), and other medical interventions. While there is no cure for POTS, these treatments can help improve your quality of life significantly.

If you are experiencing serious symptoms due to POTS and feel like you cannot function normally due to your condition, it may be helpful to speak with a specialist about options for treatment. You can find resources on the internet or through your doctor to get started in advocating for yourself.

What are the symptoms of POTS?

The hallmark symptom of POTS is an abnormally low flow of blood from the feet, even when standing. This results in fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. POTS usually begins gradually and then worsens over time. In some cases, people with POTS may also experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or palpitations. Treatment for POTS typically involves modifying a person’s daily routine to reduce their stress and improve their circulation. There is no cure for POTS, but treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

How can you advocate for yourself when seeking treatment for POTS?

If you are seeking treatment for POTS, it is important to understand your rights and how to advocate for yourself. First and foremost, you should be aware of your right to receive timely and effective treatment. You also have the right to information about the condition and possible treatments.

If you feel that your care has not been adequate, or if you do not feel that your condition is being properly assessed or treated, it is important to speak up. You may need to contact your health care provider, hospital administration, or insurance company in order to get the attention you deserve. It is also important to keep a record of all conversations related to your treatment so that you can remember what was said and who was involved.

What are the different treatments for POTS?

There are a variety of treatments available for people with POTS, and it is important to select the treatment that is best suited for you. Some people may benefit from medications such as beta blockers or calcium channel blockers, while others may experience greater relief from lifestyle changes, such as exercise or a modified diet. It is also important to consult with a specialist in order to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating POTS, so it is important to speak with your doctor about your specific symptoms and how they affect your life. Together, you can develop an individualized plan of care that will help you feel better and reduce your reliance on medication.

How can you prepare for treatment for POTS?

If you are symptomatic and have been diagnosed with POTS, the first thing you should do is find a specialist who can help you get the best possible treatment. There are many different treatments available for POTS, but it is important to find the one that will work best for you.

Some things to keep in mind when seeking treatment:
– Make sure your doctor knows about your symptoms and what triggers them.
– Discuss all of your options with your doctor.
– Be prepared to discuss your symptoms and any treatments that you may be considering.
– Bring copies of all of your medical records and test results to your appointment.
– Ask questions! If there are aspects of your diagnosis or treatment that are unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or therapist.

Conclusion

If you are struggling with COVID and POTS, it can be tough to advocate for yourself when seeking treatment. You may feel like you don’t have anything to offer and that no one will believe you. However, by understanding your symptoms and what treatments are available, you can start to build a case that will help convince your healthcare professionals of the need for your care. Remember: always tell your clinicians what has worked for you in the past and be vocal about any improvements that have been made since your last visit. With enough persistence, they may be persuaded to offer you the treatment that is right for you.