Understanding PoTS: A Condition That’s Easy to Miss

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system. It occurs when the body struggles to regulate blood flow and blood pressure properly, especially when standing up. For many people with PoTS, daily activities can become challenging due to symptoms like dizziness, heart palpitations, fatigue, and even fainting.

Although PoTS is not life-threatening, it can severely impact day-to-day living. The condition is often misunderstood, which makes it hard for those living with PoTS to explain their needs quickly, especially in emergencies or busy public spaces. That’s why carrying a simple, clear card like our "I Have PoTS" card can be incredibly helpful.

What Is PoTS, and How Does It Affect People?

PoTS is a form of dysautonomia, meaning it stems from a problem with the autonomic nervous system. When a person with PoTS stands up, their heart rate increases significantly—often by 30 beats per minute or more—without a corresponding drop in blood pressure. This leads to symptoms that range from mild discomfort to debilitating episodes.

Some common symptoms of PoTS include:

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy when standing
• Extreme fatigue, even after minor physical effort
• Rapid heart rate, especially when upright
• Nausea and digestive issues
• Difficulty concentrating, often referred to as "brain fog"
• Sensitivity to heat or temperature changes

Because PoTS symptoms can be mistaken for anxiety or other conditions, many people face delays in diagnosis. Even after diagnosis, it can be difficult to explain the condition to others, particularly in stressful or emergency situations. This is where our "I Have PoTS" card comes in.

Why Carry an "I Have PoTS" Card?

Living with PoTS means you may occasionally need assistance, understanding, or simply a little extra patience from those around you. Explaining PoTS on the spot can be exhausting, especially when you're already feeling unwell. Having a card that states your condition clearly saves time and energy, while also increasing awareness of the condition.

Our "I Have PoTS" card is single-sided, straightforward, and designed to communicate essential information at a glance. It’s not an ID card, and it’s not meant to be personalized—but it doesn’t need to be. The bold text and professional design make it easy for others to understand what PoTS is and how it might affect you in that moment.

Whether you’re out shopping, commuting, or attending an event, the "I Have PoTS" card can be a small but powerful tool to have in your pocket. Here are just a few examples of how it can help:

• In a Queue: Standing in line for long periods can be particularly challenging for people with PoTS. Showing your card to staff can help explain why you might need to sit down or be served more quickly.

• During a Medical Emergency: In the rare event you’re unable to explain your condition, this card provides immediate context for first responders or bystanders, helping them understand what might be happening and how best to assist you.

• At Work or School: PoTS symptoms can flare up unexpectedly, and explaining your condition to colleagues or teachers every time can feel repetitive. This card helps communicate your needs in a way that’s both quick and discreet.

• When Traveling: Long journeys, crowded airports, or unfamiliar environments can trigger PoTS symptoms. Having a card on hand makes it easier to request accommodations like a seat or extra time.

Beyond the practical benefits, carrying this card also helps raise awareness of PoTS. It’s a condition that many people haven’t heard of, even though it affects thousands of individuals across the US. Each time someone reads your card, they gain a better understanding of what PoTS is and how it impacts daily life. Over time, this kind of awareness can lead to greater empathy and better support for those living with PoTS.

Why Choose Our "I Have PoTS" Card?

Unlike bulky medical alert tags or bracelets, our card is compact and fits easily in your wallet or purse. It’s made from durable, biodegradable plastic, so it’s designed to last while also being environmentally friendly. The card’s professional design ensures that its message is clear and easy to read, without unnecessary details that might confuse the person reading it.

This card is a practical tool for anyone living with PoTS, whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been managing the condition for years. It provides peace of mind, knowing that you always have a quick and effective way to communicate your needs.

Carry Confidence Wherever You Go: Order Your PoTS Card from The Card Project US

Living with PoTS can be unpredictable, but having a simple card on hand can make your day a little smoother. Whether you need understanding from staff at a venue, assistance in a medical situation, or just a way to share information about your condition, the "I Have PoTS" card is here to help.

Don’t wait—add this card to your wallet today and take one small step toward making life with PoTS a little easier. Order your "I Have PoTS" card now and carry confidence with you, no matter where you go.