Navigating Back-to-School with POTS

As summer comes to a close, the excitement and anticipation of heading back to school begin to build. For many, it’s a time filled with the promise of new beginnings, new friends, and new challenges. However, for students with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), this time of year can bring a unique set of challenges that require careful planning and management.

POTS is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms like lightheadedness, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, and fainting, especially when moving from lying down to standing up. These symptoms can be exacerbated by prolonged standing, dehydration, heat, or stress—all of which can be common in a school environment.

I wanted to write this post because I know this is the type of content I would have wanted. All my tips, tricks, and best practices work for me but seeing someone else’s game plan can give you an idea of where to start with yours. While you’re here make sure you check out our other POTs-related blog post that I will link below.

Preparing for the School Year with POTs

1. Develop a Health Plan: Before school starts, work with your healthcare provider to create a health plan tailored to your needs. This plan should include any necessary accommodations, such as extra time to get to classes, permission to carry a water bottle, or the ability to sit down during activities that usually require standing.
2. Communicate with the School: It’s essential to meet with school administrators, teachers, and the school nurse to discuss your health plan and ensure they understand your needs. Make sure they are aware of what POTS is, how it affects you, and what to do in case of an emergency. Having a 504 plan in place can formalize these accommodations and ensure they are consistently applied.
3. Plan Your Schedule Wisely: If possible, arrange your class schedule to include breaks throughout the day. Avoid scheduling back-to-back classes, especially if they require a lot of walking between them. If mornings are particularly challenging due to symptoms like dizziness or fatigue, consider requesting later start times for your classes.
4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Dehydration and low blood volume can worsen POTS symptoms, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day. Make sure you have talked with your doctor to make a water goal that fits your needs. Also, make sure to keep a water bottle with you at all times I like using a water bottle that has hour goals on it so I know where I should be with my water goal throughout the day! Eating small, frequent meals can also help maintain your energy levels and stabilize blood pressure. I never go anywhere without at least 2-3 snack options. Eating a quick snack immediately makes me feel better and bonus points if it’s a salty snack!
5. Create a Comfortable Environment: The classroom environment can play a significant role in managing POTS. Ensure that you have easy access to a seat, preferably near the door if you need to leave suddenly. Temperature control is also important—dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing based on how you feel. This one goes hand in hand with speaking with your school/ teacher to make accommodations based on your needs.
6. Pace Yourself: Managing energy levels is key to preventing symptom flare-ups. Don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed, whether that means resting in the nurse’s office or sitting out of a particularly demanding activity. Prioritize your workload and focus on completing tasks without overexerting yourself.

Managing POTs Symptoms During School

Even with the best preparation, there will be days when symptoms are more pronounced. Here are some strategies to help manage symptoms while at school while waiting for medical help from your school nurse:

• Elevate Your Legs: If you feel faint, try sitting down and elevating your legs. This can help blood return to your heart and alleviate symptoms.
• Practice Deep Breathing: When you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, deep breathing exercises can help regulate your heart rate and calm your nervous system.
• Have a Go-to Kit: Keep a small kit in your backpack with essentials like salty snacks, electrolyte tablets, medication, and any other items that help manage your symptoms.

Living with POTS requires self-advocacy. Be open with your peers and teachers about your condition if you feel comfortable doing so. This transparency can help them understand your needs and offer support. Don’t be afraid to speak up if something isn’t working or if you need additional accommodations.

Managing POTS in a school setting can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Connect with others who have POTS through online communities, support groups, or social media. Sharing experiences and tips can provide comfort and practical advice for navigating school life.

I switched to homeschool right when I was getting sick and soon after was diagnosed with lupus and then dysautonomia. Homeschooling was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I wish I would have bugged my mom about it sooner. If homeschooling is an option and something you or your child would be interested in I highly recommend it. I learned more than I did in public school, I learned quicker, I was able to go at my own speed which led to me graduating 4 and a half months early, and I had access to more help than I ever did in my 10 years of public school.

Returning to school with POTS may require more planning and adjustments, but it’s entirely possible to have a successful and fulfilling school year. By preparing in advance, communicating your needs, and pacing yourself, you can manage your symptoms and make the most of your educational experience. Remember, you are not alone—many others with POTS have found ways to thrive in school, and with the right strategies, so can you.