POSTURAL ORTHOSTATIC TACHYCARDIA SYNDROME
POTS
What is Dysautonomia?
Dysautonomia is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system which controls many of the unconscious functions of the body such as heart rate, blood pressure, sweat, bladder and bowel function.
There are several sub-types of dysautonomia. The most common of these are ‘orthostatic intolerance’ and ‘postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome’ (POTS).
POTS is a complex condition that affects multiple body systems. It is characterised by a rapid heart rate when moving from sitting to standing as well as other symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, and faintness.
THE Integral Healthcare POTS Clinic
POTS Multidisciplinary Assessment Clinics
WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN Dysautonomia POTS TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT
At Integral Healthcare, we strive to provide a welcoming environment where the complex health needs of our patients can be discussed in a safe and understanding environment.
We are committed to working collaboratively with other specialists and allied health professionals to provide a comprehensive management plan to improve health outcomes for those who journey with this complex syndrome.
While the clinic focuses on treatment of POTS, we also have experience with managing the cardiac impacts of other associated conditions such as Hypermobile Spectrum Disorders, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Long-Covid Syndrome.
Multidisciplinary Assessment (MDA) Cardiology Clinic
Dysautonomia is a complex and difficult to treat, disorder. An initial, thorough assessment at our MDA clinic is required to ensure a correct diagnosis and to provide optimal understanding of the most appropriate treatment options for patients.
An appointment with our Multidisciplinary Cardiology Clinic requires a referral from a General Practitioner or specialist doctor.
Attendance at the MDA clinic involves a consultation with Dr Dennis Lau (Cardiologist/Electrophysiologist), diagnostic studies and an assessment with our Clinical Nurse.
Before attending our MDA clinics, patients may be asked to undertake some diagnostic tests. These vary according to the individual but may include:
- Holter monitor
- Echocardiogram
- ECG
- Tilt Table Testing
Those taking medications to control heart rate may be asked to stop these for various tests. Please confirm with administration staff when booking your appointment.
Multidisciplinary Assessment (MDA) GP Clinic
Dysautonomia can cause various chronic health issues that may appear unrelated, and which can be difficult to diagnose. Our Multidisciplinary GP Clinic provides a thorough assessment, as well as pathology and diagnostic screening for other associated conditions where appropriate.
All patients will be seen by our Clinical Nurse who provides a patient-centred approach to education on health management and treatment options. Where appropriate our GP and nurse can assist in developing chronic health management plans.
Appointments with our Multidisciplinary GP Clinic can be made without a referral. Where required, our GP may refer patients to Dr Lau, other medical specialists and allied health practitioners for further evaluation and health management.
Making an Appointment
Before booking an appointment with our specialists, a referral must be provided to our clinic for triage. Once triage is complete, our reception team will contact you to arrange your appointments.
No referral is needed to see our GP at the POTS MDA clinic. Please speak to our staff to schedule an appointment at this clinic.
To get the most out of your appointment we ask that you bring any previous medical test results or other relevant medical
documentation.
We understand that those with chronic illness often find medical appointments difficult. We encourage you to bring a support person to your appointment if you feel this would be beneficial.
Helpful Links
The following organisations can offer more resources for those with POTS and chronic illness.
The Australian POTS Foundation was established in 2021 and is registered with the Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission as a charitable organisation.
The organisation was founded for the purpose of raising awareness and funds to facilitate research and improve support for those living with POTS in Australia.
Some people with POTS have permanent, significant disability that may entitle them to support from the Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme. Information relating to NDIS application can be found at their website.
Standing Up to POTS is an American volunteer run charity who aim to “raise awareness, nurture community, and empower patients with information and practical skills for living better with this chronic invisible illness”. You can find a wealth of information about POTS on their website. You may also like to subscribe to their Potscasts and learn about Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Gain insight from other patients and from top POTS doctors.
POTS UK provides a wealth of information on their website designed to “educate and support patients, family, friends and medical professionals within the United Kingdom about this widely unrecognised and misdiagnosed condition by sharing up to date evidence and resources.”
Dysautonomia International is a US based organisation who work towards raising awareness about dysautonomia. Their website provides substantial information for patients, clinicians and carers alike.
Many people with POTS also have hypermobility spectrum disorders or may have one of the Ehlers Danlos subtypes. You can find more information on these conditions via The Ehlers-Danlos Society website.
A national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.