Ways to cope with POTS? Help

[luvemma]

Okay, so i have POTS. I have finally got one doctor to believe me. I been experiencing symptoms for the past three months. No doctor knew what was wrong with me since all test results came back normal. I for a month knew about POTS just by searching online. It is the only thing that made sense. My heart rate goes up way high when i stand. Today it went up from 102 sitting to 148 standing with in few minutes and it continued to go up until i sat back down. So Pots made sense. All the symptoms i experience seemed to fit in that category. It was hard to get doctors to understand. They blame it on anxiety. If it was then I'd get lightheaded even when im sitting but it only happens when i stand. Anyway, to make things short, someone believed me.
Please suggest ways to cope with POTS, and what seems to improve symptoms?
I know everyone's symptoms vary from one to another, but what worked for you?
I would say that my symptoms are not as sever as other people. I mean, i have days where i cannot walk, and i have days where i can walk for an hour or two. I do feel lightheaded (everyday), but sometimes it is not as bad.
Anything helps with Hot Flashes? I notice i got those quite often. Also my doctor prescribed Propranolol. I am kind of scared to take it.

[CHRISTYDRAKE]

My son also had very frequent hot flashes.  Those stopped completely upon taking Doxepin.  He still has terrible nausea, but all of his other symptoms are under control with the doxepin.  He no longer has the "licorice" legs, hot flashes, heavy head,,, Fludrocortisone has taken away most of his dizziness.

Good luck

[bebe127]

I do hope you get some answers. POTS is a very frustrating disorder especially since everyone's symptoms can be so different. When I got diagnosed (in mid Dec.) my Dr. told me to "go live a normal life". Not much help! I went through hell initially because I really didn't know anything about the syndrome. He advised me to drink more water and increase my sodium. I have done both and have had relief. I increased my sodium by drinking gatorade. I drink 40-60 ounces a day and the rest of the time I drink water. I do have a cup or two of coffe in the am. It really seems to have helped because I haven't had a serious tachy since Dec. My pulse still races to 120 but that I can handle. I have had issues with anxiety that I am getting under control as well. Lots of praying!!! I do not want to be on meds. My Dr. didn't put me on anything for my blood pressure because he said it wasn't low enough. I know the whole gatorade thing sounds hokey because that is exactly what I thought, but I don't have the nausea, no appitite, lightheadedness and severe tachy anymore. I can only assume that it is the sodium. Hope this helps.

[luvemma]

Oh one more thing. My blood pressure goes up. Just slightly. Not down.