Beware of the Halloween Triggers That Can Cause POTS Flares!
For people with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), Halloween can be both a fun and challenging time. The excitement of spooky festivities is balanced by the need to avoid certain "scares" that can trigger flares. If you're navigating POTS, here’s a Halloween-themed look at common triggers that could leave you feeling more haunted than happy — and some tips for keeping those symptoms under wraps!
The Curse of the Sugar Rush
Halloween is known for an overload of sugary treats. While the candy bowl is tempting, too much sugar can be a nightmare for POTS symptoms. Sugar can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood glucose levels, potentially triggering dizziness, fatigue, and heart rate spikes. Many with POTS are sensitive to these shifts, which can make Halloween candy a hidden trigger.
TIP: Enjoy candy in moderation, or try to substitute with lower-sugar treats to keep energy levels more stable. Bring some POTS-friendly salty snacks, like nuts or pickles, to balance out the sugar and prevent crashes.
The Spooky Overstimulation
Haunted houses, flashing lights, and loud music are thrilling for many but can be overwhelming for those with POTS. These sensory elements can cause symptoms to flare, as the body’s response to overstimulation may lead to increased heart rate, dizziness, and even sensory overload. This is true for even neurotypical folks, but especially true if you are neurospicy.
TIP: Limit time in highly stimulating environments or choose Halloween activities that are less intense, like pumpkin carving or watching a spooky movie at home. Noise-canceling headphones or sunglasses can also help mitigate the effects of overwhelming environments.
The Chilling or Rainy Weather
Halloween usually falls as temperatures drop. For those with POTS, cold weather can make it difficult to regulate blood flow, worsening blood pooling and causing more intense dizziness, fatigue, or pain.
TIP: Dress in layers and wear compression stockings to help maintain circulation. Warm up with a cozy drink (without caffeine or excessive sugar) and take breaks indoors if you start to feel chilled or notice a dip in your energy levels.
The Dehydration Monster
From running around at Halloween parties to joining friends on a haunted trail, it’s easy to get dehydrated without realizing it — and dehydration is a big trigger for POTS flares. Dehydration decreases blood volume, leading to an increase in symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and brain fog.
TIP: Carry a water bottle with electrolyte drinks like NormaLyte to help keep hydration levels up. Regularly sipping throughout the night can make a big difference in keeping blood volume stable and preventing flares. Plus, It's clinically proven to manage symptoms of POTS.
The Restless Spirit of Fatigue
Halloween often comes with late-night parties, haunted house visits, and trick-or-treating marathons, all of which can push you beyond your usual limits. For those with POTS, exhaustion can lead to a next-day flare-up or even days of increased symptoms.
TIP: Set a reasonable end time and take rest breaks if you're joining activities. Give yourself permission to leave early or take frequent breaks to recharge, ensuring you don’t overdo it.
The Anxiety of the Unknown
TIP: Opt for low-key Halloween activities where you can control the environment, like a calm gathering with friends. Deep breathing techniques can also help you stay grounded if you feel your heart rate climbing.
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