For POTS, Is It Reduced Blood Volume or Blood Pooling?
If you live with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), you’ve probably wondered: is what I’m feeling from low blood volume or blood pooling? The answer is that it can be both—and understanding the difference can help you make sense of your symptoms.
🩸 What Is Reduced Blood Volume?
Some people with POTS have hypovolemia, which means they have less total blood circulating in their body than expected. Researchers believe this may be due to:
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The kidneys not holding onto sodium and water efficiently
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Reduced plasma volume (the liquid part of blood)
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Hormonal imbalances, like lower renin and aldosterone levels
When your blood volume is lower, your body has less fluid available to maintain steady blood pressure and circulation—especially when you stand up.
🦵 What Is Blood Pooling?
Others experience blood pooling, which happens when blood collects in the lower half of the body (legs and abdomen) instead of returning quickly to the heart and brain. This is often caused by:
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Dilated blood vessels that don’t constrict efficiently
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Gravity pulling blood downward when standing
⚖️ Which One Is It—Or Both?
For many with POTS, it’s not just one or the other. Reduced blood volume and blood pooling often happen together, making it harder for the body to keep enough blood flowing to the brain when upright. This combination is why standing, heat, eating, or even minor activity can trigger symptoms.
💡 The Takeaway
Whether your main challenge is low blood volume, blood pooling, or both, the result is the same: your body struggles to circulate blood efficiently when upright. This leads to the hallmark rapid heart rate and other symptoms of POTS.
🌊 A Note on Hydration
One practical way many people with POTS support their daily routine is through hydration strategies. Staying hydrated doesn’t fix the underlying causes, but it can make a difference in how you feel day to day.
At NormaLyte, we offer a hydration product designed for everyday hydration needs.
Bottom line: With POTS, both reduced blood volume and blood pooling may be at play. Understanding these mechanisms helps you recognize your symptoms—and find strategies to support yourself along the way.
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