Living with PoTS: How an Awareness Card Can Help You Every Day

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, or PoTS, is a condition that affects how the body regulates blood flow. When someone with PoTS stands up, their heart rate jumps rapidly, often causing dizziness, extreme fatigue, nausea, and even fainting. For many, these symptoms come out of nowhere, making daily life unpredictable.

PoTS doesn’t just affect one part of the body. It can cause brain fog, sensitivity to heat, shaky hands, and overwhelming exhaustion. Everyday tasks like taking a shower, walking through a store, or standing in line can suddenly feel impossible. Because PoTS isn’t well known, people often misunderstand the condition, assuming symptoms are related to anxiety or dehydration.

This lack of awareness can make life even more challenging. When symptoms strike in public, getting assistance or even simple understanding can be difficult. That’s why carrying a PoTS awareness card can be so useful.

Why a PoTS Awareness Card is a Game-Changer

A PoTS awareness card is a small but powerful tool. It lets others know you have a medical condition without requiring long explanations or awkward conversations. Whether you’re feeling unwell in a crowded place, need to sit down urgently, or require assistance, having a card makes it easier to communicate your needs.

Some key benefits of carrying a PoTS awareness card include:

• Quickly explaining your condition – Instead of trying to describe PoTS to a stranger, you can simply show them the card.
• Avoiding confusion or judgment – Symptoms like dizziness and fainting can be misunderstood. A card reassures others that your condition is real and requires support.
• Making public spaces less stressful – Whether you need a seat on public transport, extra time at checkout, or help in a store, having a card can make interactions easier.
• Helping in emergencies – If you faint or feel too unwell to explain your condition, an awareness card gives people clear information about what’s happening.

For those newly diagnosed, an awareness card can also help build confidence. Navigating life with PoTS takes time, and knowing you have a way to communicate your condition makes things a little easier.

Many people with PoTS worry about how others will react when they need help. The fear of being judged or misunderstood can make simple outings feel overwhelming. An awareness card removes some of that stress.

Instead of feeling pressured to explain your symptoms on the spot, you have a tool that does it for you. Whether you're in a store, at an airport, or using public transport, carrying a PoTS card can help you get the support you need without unnecessary questions.

This is especially useful in situations where time is limited, like when boarding a flight or waiting in line. A quick glance at the card lets staff and bystanders know that your request for help is medical, not personal preference.

One of the biggest challenges for people with PoTS is the lack of general awareness. Many people have never heard of it, which means they don’t recognize the symptoms or understand why accommodations might be needed.

An awareness card not only helps the person carrying it but also plays a role in educating others. The more people see these cards, the more likely they are to recognize and understand PoTS. Over time, this can lead to more acceptance, better support, and greater awareness of autonomic conditions in general.

Carry a PoTS Awareness Card and Make Life a Little Easier

Living with PoTS comes with plenty of challenges, but a simple awareness card can make a difference. Whether you need a seat, feel unwell, or want to avoid difficult conversations, carrying a card can help.

If you or someone you know has PoTS, this card is an easy way to make daily life less stressful. Get your PoTS awareness card today and carry confidence with you wherever you go.