Introduction
If you’ve landed here after months of dizziness, rapid heartbeats, or feeling like your body’s running a marathon just from standing up—you’re not alone. Post-COVID POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) is one of those diagnoses that feels both rare and invisible, yet the diagnosis becomes a lifeline for many who’ve struggled to find answers after COVID.
In this guide, we’re not here to give false hope or easy fixes. We’ll break down what the science says, what real people experience, and what’s actually helping people move forward. Let’s get honest, together.
Quick Take for Low-Energy Days
POTS after COVID is real, common, and absolutely exhausting—but there is hope. Many people see gradual improvement, though recovery can take months or longer. It’s normal for progress to come in small steps.
Here’s what helps most: Track your symptoms to spot patterns, pace your activities to avoid crashes, and try to stay hydrated (often with extra salt, if your doctor approves). Compression stockings, elevating your head at night, and eating smaller meals can all help your body manage symptoms.
You don’t have to do this alone: connecting with others—online or in-person—can make a huge difference emotionally and practically.
Watch for red flags like fainting, severe chest pain, or new trouble breathing. If you notice these, don’t wait to reach out for professional help.
Some people use tools like symptom-tracking apps, electrolyte drinks, cooling towels, and grounding aids for comfort and better management. Not everything works for everyone, so experiment safely and only keep what helps you.
Recovery is rarely linear and it’s never about perfection—it’s about moving forward, even a little, and finding what works for you. However tired you are right now, know that thousands of others are walking this same path with you. Every step forward counts, and you’re not alone.
Why Does POTS Happen After COVID?
POTS is a condition that messes with your body’s ability to control blood flow and heart rate when you move from lying down to standing up. Since the pandemic, more people than ever have developed POTS symptoms after a COVID infection. Some estimates suggest up to 30% of long COVID sufferers report symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or even fainting when they stand up [1].
Doctors aren’t entirely sure why COVID can trigger POTS, but research points to a mix of immune system changes, nerve inflammation, and lingering effects on blood vessels. The good news? You’re not imagining this, and you’re not alone—POTS after COVID is being recognized, studied, and discussed in clinics and communities worldwide [2][3].
Can Post-COVID POTS Really Go Away?
Here’s the real talk: Yes, POTS can improve after COVID—but recovery isn’t always quick or predictable. Some people recover within months, especially with early recognition and support. For others, symptoms can linger for a year (or more), waxing and waning along the way [2][4]. For me, my POTS symptoms were at their worst for the first two years of Long Covid and have gradually gotten better with time and interventions.
Studies and survivor stories show that while POTS doesn’t have a single “cure,” many of us see gradual improvement over time. The most important thing? Progress is possible, even if it’s slow or uneven. Every small win counts—standing a bit longer, walking a bit farther, or finding a day with fewer symptoms is a step forward.
What Helps People Recover?
- Symptom tracking: Writing down daily symptoms helps spot patterns and what triggers crashes.
- Pacing and activity management: Slowly building up stamina, listening to your body, and resting before you crash.
- Hydration and salt: Many find that increasing fluid and salt intake (as advised by their doctor) helps manage symptoms.
- Professional support: Working with a doctor familiar with POTS, especially if you need medication or specialized rehab.
- Peer support: Being part of a community—even online—can provide emotional support and real-world hacks [1][5].
What Makes Recovery Slower or Harder?
- POTS went undiagnosed for a long time
- You’re juggling other long COVID symptoms (like brain fog or fatigue)
- You don’t have access to supportive healthcare
- Continued daily stress and lack of rest make it hard to recover
Remember: None of this is your fault. POTS is a real, physical condition that needs time and the right kind of support to improve [2][4].
Red Flags: When to Get Professional Help
If you’re experiencing any of the following, don’t wait—reach out to your healthcare provider:
- Fainting, especially with chest pain or palpitations
- Shortness of breath that’s new or worsening
- Severe, unrelenting headaches
- Vision changes or confusion
- Inability to keep down fluids
It’s always better to check in early and get expert advice. POTS can overlap with other serious conditions, and your safety comes first.
Managing POTS at Home: What Really Works?
Self-Care at Home
- Compression stockings: Help improve circulation and reduce symptoms. I have found compression belts to be even more helpful after learning about them at the Mayo Clinic.
- Elevate your head at night: Sleeping with your upper body raised slightly can lessen morning symptoms.
- Eat small, frequent meals: Prevents large swings in blood pressure.
- Hydration & salt: Follow your care provider’s advice on fluids and sodium—some doctors are recommending up to 10 grams of salt per day. Ask your doctor but this can be done through electrolytes in your water, sodium in your food, and supplemental sodium tablets.
- Structured routines: Planning your day around energy levels and rest breaks.
Remedies & Aids Worth Trying
- Symptom tracking apps or journals to notice what helps and what doesn’t. I have found the Visible device to be incredible for pacing which in turn has limited crashes that can worsen my POTS symptoms.
- Electrolytes for hydration (check with your doctor first)
- Cooling towels or fans placed on the back of your neck or a cold ice pack on your wrist.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulators: These can be helpful to rebalance your autonomic nervous system. Research on this new treatment is ongoing but promising.
- Prescription options: Ask your doctor if any Rx options could be helpful to you (i.e. beta blockers, mestinon, Low Dose Naltrexone, Low Dose Cialis)
- Cold Therapy: Cold showers (start with 15–30 seconds at the end of your shower), cold/cool baths, or other forms of cold immersion have been shown to help improve autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
- Weighted blankets or grounding aids for rest and anxiety
Remember: There’s no one-size-fits-all solution and some things help more at different times in your symptom cycle. Take what helps, leave what doesn’t, and keep experimenting safely with your doctor's help. You’re building your recovery stack, one step at a time.
Real Stories from the Community
“I thought I was losing my mind until someone mentioned POTS. Tracking my symptoms and connecting with others gave me hope—and a plan.”
“My recovery isn’t linear. Some weeks are better than others. Hydration, pacing, and talking to people who get it—that’s what makes it bearable.”
FAQs: Answers to Your Biggest Questions
Can POTS from COVID go away on its own?
For some people, yes—especially with mild symptoms and early management. For others, it’s a longer journey, but improvement is common with time, self-care, and support [2][4].
How long does it take to recover from post-COVID POTS?
Recovery timelines vary widely—some see improvement in months, others may take a year or more. Even slow progress is a sign your body’s healing.
Will my life ever feel normal again?
While it might not look exactly like before, many people regain much (or all) of their previous activity and quality of life over time. Every step forward matters.
Looking for More Answers or Support?
Still have questions or need more in-depth advice? Visit our FAQ hub, join the blog community, or explore our guides for deeper dives into managing POTS and Long COVID symptoms.
Conclusion: You’re Not Alone in This
POTS after COVID can feel overwhelming, isolating, and—at times—never-ending. But you’re part of a growing community who truly gets it. With the right support, practical tools, and honest information, recovery is possible—even if it’s slower than anyone wants. Hold onto hope, track your wins, and know that every step forward is progress.
