POTS creates a variety of daily life issues for many people. And according to one Vanderbilt University Ph.D, "one of the most common symptoms reported by POTS patients is cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog.” This refers to decreases in ability to think clearly, remember, concentrate, or even having trouble finding words when communicating verbally, and at the Vanderbilt University’s Autonomic Dysfunction Clinic, at least 80% of POTS patients have reported having these symptoms.
While much of the underlying causes of this 'brain fog' are unknown, there are some indications that the brain fog itself may not be the result of an increased heart rate and issues with going from sitting to standing positions, but from something from the disease itself. It will take more time and research to determine more clearly what is really going on, but perhaps revealing the underlying causes will lead to treatments that indirectly help with the brain fog issue. One area to look at, of course, is electrolyte levels and nutrition, as these have already been shown in other research to be powerful influencers of brain activity and severity of a lot of POTS symptoms.
There are many questions to be answered regarding brain fog, cognitive function and their relation to POTS, such as Is lowered cognitive function the same as brain fog? Are there specific cognitive function tests? Who should perform these tests--your regular doctor or a specialist? All of these questions and more are being answered by the team at Vanderbilt University’s Autonomic Dysfunction Clinic and you can read this very interesting article here.
If you're looking for a POTS doctor, however, you'll definitely want to check out the team at Dysautonomia-MVP Center LLC in Birmingham, AL. Dr. Paula Moore and Dr. Susan Phillips are well known for getting to the bottom of symptoms and providing treatment plans that work. No matter where you are, if you want answers to your POTS or dysautonomia questions, call the office today at 205-286-3200 and set up and appointment. You'll be glad you did.
Dysautonomia-MVP Center, LLC
Accurate Diagnosis & Treatment for Better Results
2470 Rocky Ridge Road Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35243
http://www.mvpctr.com
(205) 286-3200
