Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: A Common Co-Morbidity in Patients with Spinal CSF Leak

This webinar provides an overview of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), as a common comorbidity in patients with spinal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. POTS is a form of dysautonomia characterized by an abnormal heart rate response with upright position, often accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, nausea, palpitations, and fatigue. POTS affects a broad spectrum of systems, causing orthostatic intolerance and a range of non-orthostatic symptoms. Recent studies indicate that symptoms of POTS and spinal CSF leak often overlap, including orthostatic headache, dizziness, and light-headedness. Notably, orthostatic headache—a hallmark feature of spinal CSF leak —has been reported by a significant percentage of POTS patients. However, while diagnostic criteria for spinal CSF leak emphasize excluding POTS in patients with unexplained orthostatic headaches, the reverse is not as thoroughly addressed in POTS diagnostic guidelines. This engaging and informative webinar delves into the diagnosis and treatment of POTS. Our expert speaker, Dr. Satish R Raj, MD, MSCI FHRS FRCPC, is Professor of Cardiac Sciences at the University of Calgary. He is also Service Chief, Arrhythmia Section, in the Division of Cardiology, is Director of the Calgary Autonomic Investigation & Management Clinic, Director of Education at the Libin Cardiovascular Institute, and Former President of the American Autonomic Society. Dr. Raj discusses key topics related to POTS and dysautonomia, including: ● Diagnosis ● Treatment Approaches ● Monitoring and Tracking Progress ● Exercise and Lifestyle Recommendations The session concludes with a Q&A, allowing attendees to engage with the leading expert in the field and deepen their understanding of managing POTS in the context of spinal CSF leak.