Differential Diagnosis for POTS
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) itself, as the symptoms presented likely align closely with the diagnostic criteria for POTS, including a significant increase in heart rate upon standing, without orthostatic hypotension.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dehydration: Can cause similar symptoms to POTS, such as tachycardia and dizziness upon standing, due to decreased blood volume.
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count or hemoglobin can lead to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, potentially causing fatigue, dizziness, and tachycardia.
- Hypothyroidism: Although less common, hypothyroidism can sometimes present with fatigue, dizziness, and orthostatic intolerance, which might mimic some POTS symptoms.
- Autonomic Dysfunction: Conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system can lead to symptoms overlapping with POTS, including orthostatic intolerance.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Orthostatic Hypotension: A drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can be dangerous and is a key differential to rule out in the diagnosis of POTS.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Certain arrhythmias can cause symptoms similar to POTS, such as palpitations and syncope, and require immediate medical attention.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodes of hypertension, tachycardia, and orthostatic hypotension.
- Addison's Disease: Adrenal insufficiency can lead to orthostatic hypotension, fatigue, and potentially life-threatening complications if not recognized.
Rare Diagnoses
- Mitral Valve Prolapse: Although not typically associated with POTS-like symptoms, in rare cases, it can lead to orthostatic intolerance and tachycardia.
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A genetic disorder that can affect the autonomic nervous system and lead to symptoms similar to POTS, among other systemic manifestations.
- Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Can cause a wide range of symptoms, including orthostatic intolerance, due to the release of mast cell mediators.