Postural Tachycardia Syndrome, often abbreviated to POTS, is a medical condition that causes sufferers to experience an abnormally increased heart rate when they sit or stand up. The condition can be debilitating for those who are unlucky enough to be afflicted by it.
As parents, we never want to see our children suffer, so it’s often distressing when you find you child has POTS. Luckily, there are a number of ways that you can help to prevent the symptoms of POTS in your children, many of which don’t require a trip to the paediatrician.
Ways to prevent the symptoms of POTS in children
Here are some of our best tips to prevent children from feeling the symptoms of POTS
Diet
A high salt diet can help, however, be careful as too much salt can lead to other negative health effects. It’s also advised to eat in smaller portions and avoid large meals where possible.
Exercise
Ensure your child regularly gets light to moderate exercise (just don’t let them overdo it). A Low-impact exercise, such as swimming, is recommended./p>
Try to make sure they get plenty of sleep
Those afflicted with POTS can often struggle to sleep, and this can have a negative effect on your children’s POTS symptoms. Try to make their room as comfortable as possible and make sure they avoid stimulants and large meals before bedtime.
Keep them stress-free
POTS can often be brought on during periods of stress. Of course, it’s hard to ensure your children don’t get stressed, but try everything you can to keep them calm whenever possible.
Ensure they pace themselves
Children can be energetic, but it will help with the symptoms if you can help them to pace themselves. Try to make sure they rest fully before physical activities and plan for time to recover afterwards.
Keep them cool & hydrated
Extreme heat can be a factor that impacts on your children’s POTS symptoms. If it’s hot outside then try to keep them shaded and cool. Avoid very hot baths etc. Like many things, dehydration can also exacerbate the symptoms of POTS. Make sure you keep your child well hydrated; water is the most effective way to do this.
Following these tips can help you to manage your children’s PoTS symptoms
However, please note that these should not always be used as an alternative to pharmacological treatment. Always consult a medical professional if you’re unsure.
Other measures that can prevent the symptoms of POTS are POTS stockings and keeping the head end of bed elevated during sleep.
