Hypercapnia and Orthostatic Tolerance in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome
The mechanism behind postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) involves many causes including a sympathetic nervous system problem. Blood gases, like carbon dioxide (CO2), have an important effect on sympathetic activation. The purpose of this research study is to determine if higher CO2 levels have any effect in lowering heart rate and reducing POTS symptoms when upright/standing. The investigators are also searching for the ideal CO2 concentration to achieve the most effective response
• Physician diagnosis of Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
• Age 18-60 years
• Male and Female
• Non - smokers.
• Able and willing to provide informed consent.
• Ability to travel to Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta Autonomic Testing Lab at the University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.