Laura, 19

Hello, my name is Laura, and I am 19 years old. In January 2021, I started experiencing symptoms of PoTS including dizziness, raised heart rate, headaches and migraines, fatigue, and nausea. These symptoms appeared suddenly one day with no obvious cause. I had a COVID antibody test which came back negative so it is unlikely to be caused by this however, I can’t completely rule it out.  

It completely turned my life upside down but after 6 months I am starting to find medication and lifestyle changes to be able to manage it.  

I have had many different tests including a heart monitor, a CT scan, an echocardiogram, and blood tests which all ruled out any other conditions. I am now on multiple medications including a beta blocker to control my heart rate. 

This illness is invisible

I wanted to share my story because I had never heard of this condition before my doctor suggested it. It has completely changed my life. I went from going on long hikes and playing tennis to barely being able to walk 15 minutes. I had to quit two jobs because I could not manage them. I also found it difficult knowing that this illness is invisible. I have spent many hours worrying that people would not believe me, and I was making it all up.  

Not being able to do what I want and feeling ill every day has really affected my mental health.  

However, with medication and following lifestyle changes, such as drinking plenty including electrolytes and increased salt, my physical health has started to improve and therefore so has my mental health. Although I cannot do everything that I could last year, there are other positives. I now have more time to focus on study (even if it is from my bed) and I have started learning a new language.  

There are still tough days, but I have a close support network and friends and family around me. 

Please remember that just because the illness isn’t always visible, it doesn’t make your symptoms any less valid.