Supporting Your Teen with POTS

Parenting a teenager comes with its own set of challenges, but when your teen is also living with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), navigating adolescence can become even more complex. POTS is a form of dysautonomia that affects the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, fatigue, and rapid heartbeat upon standing. Let's talk about how parents can support their teen with POTS, provide tips for managing the condition, and address common challenges that may come up.

Understanding POTS in Teens

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) can present unique challenges for teenagers as they navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood. Teens with POTS may struggle with symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating, which can impact their academic performance, social interactions, and overall quality of life.

Supporting Your Teen with POTS

You want the best for your child, but POTS seems daunting.  There are a lot of questions that inevitably go through your mind, but the biggest one of all is "will my child lead a normal life?"  The answer is yes!  The fact you're here reading this means that they have a community that cares deeply about their overall successes.

We can provide some tips on how to help you support your teenager with dysautonomia.

1. Education. Help your teen understand their condition by providing age-appropriate information about POTS. Encourage open communication and empower them to advocate for their needs with teachers, peers, and healthcare providers.  Knowledge is always power.

2. Encourage Self-Care. Teach your teen the importance of self-care practices such as staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and pacing themselves to avoid overexertion. Encourage them to listen to their body and prioritize activities that promote their well-being.

3. Create a Supportive Environment. Foster a supportive and understanding environment at home where your teen feels comfortable discussing their symptoms and concerns. Validate their experiences and offer emotional support as they navigate the ups and downs of living with POTS.  Just being supportive and understanding of the symptoms will mean the world to them long term.  You are the foundation of the tribe they will form in their life.

4. Collaborate with Healthcare Providers. Work closely with your teen's healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs. Advocate for appropriate accommodations at school and seek out specialists who are knowledgeable about POTS in adolescents.  There are great support groups online and on social media if you're not sure where to start.

5. Promote Independence. POTS is a chronic illness, but it doesn't mean that your teenager can't be independent.  Encourage your teen to take an active role in managing their condition, such as keeping track of symptoms, attending medical appointments, and advocating for themselves. Foster independence and autonomy while providing guidance and support as needed.

6. Explore Treatment Options. Investigate various treatment options for managing POTS symptoms, including medication, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and dietary changes. Work with healthcare providers to find the best approach for your teen's individual needs.

Common Challenges for Parents of Teens with POTS

1. Balancing Independence and Support. Striking the right balance between promoting independence and providing support can be challenging for parents of teens with POTS. Encourage autonomy while offering guidance and assistance as needed, and be patient as your teen navigates their journey with POTS.

2. School Accommodations. Advocating for appropriate accommodations at school can be a complex process. Work with teachers, school administrators, and healthcare providers to develop a plan that supports your teen's academic success while managing their POTS symptoms.  Valerie Kraft, a recent college graduate and someone with POTS, created the "College Girls Life Experiences With POTS".  We recommend downloading the e-book and looking through it with your teen.

3. Social Isolation. Teens with chronic health conditions like POTS may struggle with feelings of social isolation or exclusion. Encourage your teen to maintain social connections with friends and peers, even if it means modifying activities to accommodate their symptoms.

4. Emotional Well-Being. Living with POTS can take a toll on a teen's emotional well-being. Be attuned to changes in your teen's mood or behavior and provide a safe space for them to express their feelings. Consider seeking counseling or therapy to support their mental health.

5. Financial Strain. Managing a chronic health condition like POTS can place financial strain on families due to medical expenses, specialized treatments, and accommodations. Explore resources and support networks available to families of teens with chronic illnesses, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.

Parenting a Teen With POTS

Parenting a teen with POTS comes with its own unique set of challenges, but with patience, understanding, and support, you can help your teen navigate their chronic illness. By educating yourself about POTS, fostering open communication, advocating for your teen's needs, promoting independence, exploring treatment options, and addressing common challenges head-on, you can empower your teen to thrive despite the challenges of living with a chronic health condition.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and there are resources and support networks available to help you and your teen every step of the way.

Clinically Proven Approach

NormaLyte is a clinically proven approach to help managing symptoms of POTS.  Read more about the clinical study that was done here.  NormaLyte uses the sodium glucose cotransport system, a system discovered by the World Health Organization (WHO).  We use the WHO's perfect formula for oral rehydration and it's the formula that will help your teenager get back to their normal.

Be sure to grab a free sample of NormaLyte and see how it can help you find your normal.