Important Lifestyle Changes: Temperature Regulation

People with PoTS often have problems with temperature regulation. This is because the autonomic nervous system, which is abnormal in PoTS, also controls our body temperature. Some people struggle to keep cool, others struggle to keep warm and some can experience a range of temperature fluctuations, often all on the same day.  

Heat causes blood vessels to widen, thereby increasing heart rate and other PoTS symptoms. Some people find symptoms are worse during hot weather, such as in the summer.  

We asked our community what they do to stay warm or keep cool: 

• Further increase salt and fluid intake if you feel hot or start to sweat more
• Have a spray bottle of water at hand for your face and neck. This will cool you down as the water evaporates from your skin
• A fan can be helpful
• Cooling towels, mats, pillows and vests can be useful 
• Some people suggest wearing ‘athletic’ underlayer/wear to help wick away sweat 
• Multiple thin layers of bedding for night sweats 
• Consider layering clothes when getting ready each day so you can add or remove clothing depending on your temperature throughout the day 
• Many people with PoTS feel hot when standing still – if this is the case avoid prolonged standing and sit down where possible using a seat or stick stool
• Slow down the pace of your day and try to rest if you can 

*Currently no available medical evidence. Based on patient experience and opinion. 

Thank you to Ruby Usiskin for producing the image. Subject to copyright by PoTS UK.