POTS: Symptoms, Causes, and How IV Fluids Can Help You Feel Better

Written By Kaitlin Kline

If you’ve ever felt dizzy when standing up, experienced a racing heart for no clear reason, or struggled with chronic fatigue, you may have heard of POTS. Short for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, POTS is a condition that affects thousands of people - many of whom go undiagnosed for years.

At River to Sea Wellness, we frequently see clients looking for relief from these frustrating symptoms. One supportive option that has gained attention is IV fluid therapy.

Let’s break down what POTS is, why it happens, and how IV hydration may help.

What Is POTS?

POTS is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and circulation.

When someone with POTS stands up, their heart rate increases abnormally (often by 30+ beats per minute) without a corresponding drop in blood pressure.

Common Symptoms of POTS

People with POTS can experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness (especially when standing)

  • Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

  • Headaches or migraines

  • Nausea

  • Exercise intolerance

  • Fainting or near-fainting episodes

Many patients describe feeling “fine” while lying down but feel significantly worse when upright.

What Causes POTS?

POTS can have several underlying causes, and in many cases, it’s multifactorial. Some common contributors include:

  • Dehydration or low blood volume

  • Viral illness or post-viral syndromes

  • Hormonal changes (often seen in women)

  • Autoimmune conditions

  • Nervous system dysfunction

It is also commonly seen in younger women and may develop after illness, surgery, or prolonged inactivity.

Why Hydration Is Critical for POTS

One of the key issues in POTS is low circulating blood volume. When your body doesn’t have enough fluid, it struggles to maintain proper circulation, especially when you stand.

That’s why many POTS patients are told to:

  • Increase water intake

  • Consume more electrolytes

  • Increase sodium (under medical guidance)

But for some people, drinking fluids alone isn’t enough.

How IV Fluids Can Help with POTS

IV hydration delivers fluids directly into the bloodstream, allowing for faster and more effective rehydration compared to drinking water.

Potential Benefits of IV Therapy for POTS

  • Rapid increase in blood volume

  • Improved circulation and blood pressure stability

  • Reduced dizziness and lightheadedness

  • Decreased heart rate fluctuations

  • Improved energy levels

Many POTS patients report feeling relief within hours after receiving IV fluids.

What’s in an IV for POTS?

A typical IV hydration treatment for POTS may include:

  • Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) – to expand blood volume

  • Electrolytes – to support nerve and muscle function

  • Optional vitamins such as:

    • B-complex (for energy)

    • Magnesium (for headaches and muscle support)

Each treatment should be tailored to the individual and guided by a qualified medical provider.

Is IV Therapy a Cure for POTS?

IV fluids are not a cure for POTS - but they can be a powerful supportive therapy for symptom management.

Most patients benefit from a comprehensive approach, which may include:

  • Hydration and electrolyte strategies

  • Compression garments

  • Medications (if prescribed)

  • Lifestyle modifications

IV therapy can be especially helpful during flare-ups or periods of worsening symptoms.

Who Might Benefit from IV Hydration for POTS?

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with POTS

  • Experience frequent dizziness or fatigue

  • Struggle to stay hydrated despite drinking fluids

  • Need quick symptom relief

Convenient IV Therapy in Northeast Ohio

We have have infusion locations in North Canton, OH and Kent, OH. We also travel to workplaces and wellness events throughout Northeast Ohio, including Cleveland, Akron, Hudson, Fairlawn, Massillon, and surrounding areas.

We provide:

  • Medical-grade IV fluids administered by a Registered Nurse

  • Prescribed IV fluids by an MD

  • Flexible scheduling

Take Control of Your Symptoms

Living with POTS can be overwhelming but you don’t have to manage it alone. Supportive therapies like IV hydration can make a meaningful difference in how you feel day to day.

If you’re curious whether IV therapy could help you, reach out today to learn more or schedule your session!

Kaitlin Kline
Next

The Most Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Northeast Ohio (and the Symptoms to Watch For)