Mental health challenges in pediatrics with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

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Created On: 20/12/2024

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a persistent orthostatic intolerance condition leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, and raised heart rate. While the link between POTS and mental health issues (like anxiety and depression) is debated in adults, data on these conditions in pediatric patients is limited. This study sought to examine more on the same.

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Key take away

Pediatric patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome experience markedly higher rates of anxiety and depression than their peers, highlighting the necessity for mental health evaluations in this group.

Background

Method

This retrospective study analyzed 27 children (aged 11-17) suffering from POTS. Utilizing the generalized anxiety disorder 7-item (GAD-7) and the patient health questionnaire for adolescents (PHQ-A) questionnaires, researchers assessed anxiety and depression levels.

Result

Among the 27 patients, a staggering 74% showed moderate-to-severe anxiety, depression, or both. Notably, 44% had both conditions, while 14% had only depression and another 14% had only anxiety. Overall, 6 patients illustrated no signs of depression or anxiety, with POTS symptoms appearing an average of 1.9±1.3 years pre-diagnosis. As found, 11 patients were on stable psychotropic medications. After about 5 months of treatment for POTS, 4 out of 7 patients reported improved depression severity, and 3 reported less anxiety.

Conclusion

Anxiety and depression were common in pediatric POTS patients. While initial findings suggest that POTS treatment may help reduce these psychological symptoms, further research is needed to fully understand the impact over time.