An exploration of symptoms and biopsychosocial factors in POTS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Correlates and predictors of symptom severity over time in patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
IRAS ID
297603
Contact name
Rona Moss-Morris
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) is a poorly understood disorder of the autonomic nervous system with many possible causes, characterised by an unexplained increase in heartbeat without change in blood pressure upon standing, accompanied by symptoms. Associated cardiac and noncardiac symptoms can severely affect quality of life comparable to individuals who have COPD or congestive heart failure. Diagnostic delays and Misdiagnosis (often as anxiety) of the condition are common. It is mainly seen in women (5:1 ratio).
In developed countries, the prevalence of POTS has been estimated at 0.2% and 1.0%, but data on POTS are largely unavailable outside of the USA . The prognosis depends on the nature of the underlying disorder but it is estimated that up to 90% of patients will respond to a combination of physical therapy and pharmacotherapy, although there is currently no medication licensed for POTS. At least a quarter of people with POTS are unable to work and quality of life and functioning are significantly affected. A more theoretically driven empirical approach is needed to determine the type of behavioural intervention to help reduce symptoms severity and improve quality of life in POTS. A longitudinal study is needed to investigate psychosocial and clinical factors in POTS over time (before and after treatment) and will contribute to the limited evidence currently available.
The proposed longitudinal study will be conducted within one of the UK’s leading POTS clinics at King’s College Hospital. The overarching aim is to develop a biopsychosocial model of POTS symptom severity, with a view to designing a feasible, acceptable, and effective intervention aimed at improving adjustment and self-management of symptoms among people with POTS.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0728
Date of REC Opinion
27 Oct 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion