Since the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians have observed a growing number of patients experiencing lingering symptoms long after the acute infection resolves. One increasingly recognized condition is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)—a form of autonomic dysfunction that affects heart rate, blood pressure regulation, and overall neurological function.
But can you actually develop POTS after COVID-19? The short answer is yes—and research continues to support this connection.
What Is POTS?
POTS is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system characterized by an excessive increase in heart rate when moving from lying down to standing. Common symptoms include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Exercise intolerance
Traditionally, viral infections have been known triggers for POTS, and COVID-19 appears to be no exception.
The Link Between COVID-19 and POTS
Emerging research shows a clear association between COVID-19 infection and increased rates of POTS diagnosis.
- A large study found that the risk of developing POTS was over 5 times higher after COVID-19 infection compared to vaccinated individuals.
- Population data has demonstrated a significant rise in POTS cases following the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a strong post-viral relationship.
- Some studies estimate that up to one-third of patients with long COVID symptoms may experience POTS or similar autonomic dysfunction.
Additionally, clinical observations show that many patients develop symptoms within 6–8 months after infection, reinforcing the delayed and post-viral nature of the condition.
Why Does COVID-19 Trigger POTS?
While research is ongoing, several mechanisms are believed to contribute:
- Autonomic nervous system dysfunction
- Immune system dysregulation or autoimmunity
- Inflammation affecting blood vessel control
- Deconditioning after illness
COVID-19 is known to impact multiple systems in the body, and autonomic dysfunction (dysautonomia) is increasingly recognized as part of “long COVID.”
How Common Is Post-COVID POTS?
Although exact numbers vary, studies consistently show a notable increase:
- Estimates suggest 2%–14% of COVID-19 survivors may develop POTS, with higher rates in those experiencing persistent symptoms.
- In some cohorts, nearly 29% of post-COVID patients evaluated for symptoms were diagnosed with POTS.
These findings highlight that POTS is not rare in the post-COVID population—and may be underdiagnosed.
Why Proper Diagnosis Matters
POTS is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed as anxiety or general fatigue. However, accurate diagnosis requires:
- Detailed clinical history
- Orthostatic testing (heart rate and blood pressure changes)
- Neurological and autonomic evaluation
Without proper identification, patients may struggle with persistent symptoms and limited recovery.
The Importance of Specialized POTS Rehabilitation
Recovery from POTS—especially post-COVID POTS—is not one-size-fits-all. It requires a targeted, multidisciplinary approach that may include:
- Gradual cardiovascular reconditioning
- Neurological rehabilitation
- Vestibular and balance therapy
- Autonomic retraining
Working with a practitioner experienced in POTS rehabilitation is critical. General exercise programs or unsupervised activity can sometimes worsen symptoms if not properly structured.
Care at Nova Neuro Brain Center
At Nova Neuro Brain Center, we specialize in helping patients with complex neurological and autonomic conditions, including POTS.
We offer:
- Comprehensive neurological examinations to identify the root cause of symptoms
- Advanced diagnostic testing for autonomic dysfunction
- Personalized, non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical targeted neurological rehabilitation programs designed specifically for individuals with POTS
- Customized rehab strategies focused on restoring autonomic balance, improving tolerance to position changes, and enhancing overall neurological function
Our approach emphasizes natural recovery pathways and brain-based rehabilitation techniques, helping patients improve without relying solely on medications or invasive procedures.
Call us today: 703-758-1896
When to Seek Help
You should consider evaluation if you’ve had COVID-19 and are experiencing:
- Persistent dizziness when standing
- Rapid heart rate with minimal activity
- Chronic fatigue or brain fog
- Exercise intolerance
Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Final Thoughts
The connection between COVID-19 and POTS is becoming increasingly clear. While not everyone who contracts COVID-19 will develop POTS, the risk is significantly higher than previously recognized, especially in those with lingering symptoms.
The good news is that with proper diagnosis and specialized rehabilitation, many individuals can see meaningful improvement.
References (AMA Style)
- Kwan AC, et al. Apparent risks of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome diagnoses after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nat Cardiovasc Res. 2022.
- Dulal D, et al. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Eur Heart J Qual Care Clin Outcomes. 2025.
- Harris CI, et al. COVID-19 increases the prevalence of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Front Neurol. 2022.
Forrest Fisher
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