Understanding Vasovagal Syncope and POTS
20-year-old female here. I’m aware that there is a distinction between vasovagal syncope (VVS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), but could someone break it down for me in simple terms? I have been diagnosed with VVS, yet I feel as though my cardiologist is somewhat dismissive regarding the regularity of my episodes. I tend to faint primarily when I stand up, during prolonged standing, after walking for extended durations, and while climbing stairs. However, these are not the only triggers; I also experience fainting episodes at random times. On a nearly daily basis, I find myself dealing with these episodes, but when I visit my cardiologist (about every couple of months), the only inquiry they make is, "Have you fainted since your last visit?" I underwent a tilt table test, but unfortunately, my cardiologist did not conduct it correctly, and I have never received the results; I was simply informed that it’s classified as VVS. To this day, the results remain completely unavailable to me. Whenever I ask for those results, they claim they cannot provide them. In any case, could someone clarify the differences between POTS and VVS? Furthermore, is it typical for a cardiologist to respond this way towards a VVS diagnosis? I am particularly concerned because I feel that my cardiologist does not fully grasp how significantly this condition impacts my life, especially after I requested a letter for academic accommodations due to the frequency of my episodes, which they refused to provide.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 11:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're navigating a challenging and frustrating situation with your health, and it's completely understandable to seek clarity and support. Let’s break down the key points about vasovagal syncope (VVS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and consider how to address your concerns.
Key Points
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Vasovagal Syncope (VVS): This condition is a common cause of fainting and occurs when your body overreacts to certain triggers (like standing for a long time) that signal a drop in heart rate and blood pressure. This can lead to temporary loss of consciousness.
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Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): POTS is a type of dysautonomia that affects blood flow and the nervous system. People with POTS often experience a significant increase in heart rate when standing and may have similar fainting tendencies, but they also frequently report symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and palpitations.
Differences Explained Simply
- Triggers: VVS is usually triggered by specific situations (like standing or emotional stress), while POTS symptoms can worsen with standing but are also often accompanied by an abnormal increase in heart rate even with minimal exertion.
- Symptoms: POTS can have a broader range of symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, and heart palpitations, not just fainting.
Next Steps
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Tracking Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your episodes, including the context (what you were doing, how long you were standing, etc.). This will help provide a clearer picture of your situation.
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Seeking Information: It’s important to advocate for your needs. Document your requests for information about your tilt table test and ask for follow-ups on your health status. If it is difficult to get results, consider asking for a copy of your medical records that may include that information.
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Consider a Second Opinion: If you feel your concerns are not being fully addressed, it might be valuable to seek a second opinion from another cardiologist or a specialist in autonomic disorders. They can help clarify whether it's solely VVS or if POTS might also play a role.
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Academic Accommodations: If your condition significantly impacts your daily life, it may be worthwhile to explore options for academic accommodations through your school’s disability services. Having a letter can be crucial, and you could potentially seek support from other healthcare professionals if your cardiologist is not providing the necessary documentation.
Your experiences and concerns are valid, and it’s important to find a healthcare provider who listens to you and validates the challenges you face. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself during healthcare visits. You have every right to understand your condition and how it affects your life.
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