Is POTS a disability?

• Michael Burry
• Mar 19, 2025
• Disability Law

Is POTS a disability?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) can potentially qualify as a disability if you meet the criteria listed under the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book Listing and satisfy the disability definition. POTS is not specified in the disabling list of medical conditions according to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). 

What is POTS disability?

POTS stands for “Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome”. It is a type of dysautonomia, which is a medical condition that affects the autonomic nervous system.

People with POTS experience a rapid heart rate and other symptoms when they stand up or change positions from sitting or lying down. This happens because their body is not able to adjust to the change in posture, which leads to a decrease in blood flow to the brain and other organs.

The Physiology behind POTS: Why does the heart rate increase?

• Symptoms: A Comprehensive List

POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) can cause a wide range of symptoms that can vary in severity from person to person. Some of the most common POTS disability symptoms include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing up or changing positions

• Fainting or near-fainting episodes

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Shortness of breath

• Headaches or migraines

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue or weakness

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

• Tremors or shaking

• Sweating

• Anxiety

• Cold or clammy skin

• Blurred vision or visual disturbances

These symptoms can occur at any time but are often triggered by standing up, walking, or other physical activity. Symptoms can also worsen during hot weather or when the person is dehydrated.

Types of POTS Explained

There are several different types of POTS that are classified based on their underlying cause or associated medical condition. Some of the most common types of POTS include:

• Primary: This type of POTS is also known as idiopathic POTS, which means that it has no clear underlying cause or associated medical condition. It is the most common type of POTS.

• Secondary: This type of POTS is associated with an underlying medical condition or trigger. Some of the conditions that can cause secondary POTS include diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and certain neurological disorders.

• Neuropathic: This type of POTS is caused by damage or dysfunction to the nerves that control blood vessel dilation and constriction.

• Hyperadrenergic: This type of POTS is associated with an overactive sympathetic nervous system disorder, which can lead to high levels of adrenaline and other stress hormones.

• Low flow: This type of POTS is caused by reduced blood volume or blood flow, which can occur as a result of dehydration, blood loss, or other medical conditions.

• Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST): While not technically a type of POTS, IST is a related condition that involves an abnormally high resting heart rate.

Each type of POTS can have slightly different symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to identify the specific type of POTS and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Can you get disability benefits for POTS?

Whether POTS qualifies as a disability depends on the severity of the symptoms and the impact they have on the individual’s ability to carry out daily activities, including work, school, or other tasks.

In some cases, POTS can be disabling, and individuals with severe symptoms may be eligible for POTS Social Security disability benefits under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the Social Security Administration (SSA). 

However, each case is evaluated on an individual basis, and the eligibility for POTS syndrome disability benefits depends on the specific circumstances of the individual’s situation.

Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies for POTS

• Step-by-Step guide to getting diagnosed with POTS

If you get diagnosed with POTS and your symptoms overlap with other medical conditions, there may not be a single test to diagnose the disorder. To diagnose with POTS, you need to follow some steps:

1. Initial Consultation: Initial consultation involves symptoms review by a healthcare provider who will discuss your symptoms. Then, they will review your health history,and then they may perform a physical exam to check for symptoms that may suggest you are experiencing POTS or any other condition. 

2. Cardiovascular Evaluation: One of the key features of POTS is how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to changes in your posture. 

3. The Tilt Table Test: The tilt table test refers to a gold standard diagnostic test for POTS disability. In this test, you are strapped to a table that will tilt you upright while your blood pressure, heart rate, and other important signs are being monitored.  

Your doctor will monitor if your heart rate is abnormally increasing when you stand without a corresponding drop in blood pressure. One of the indicative features of POTS is that your heart rate increases by more than 30 beats per minute within 10 minutes of standing. 

4. Additional Diagnostic Tests (if required): Some additional blood tests that may assess how your autonomic nervous system is functioning are the Valsalva maneuver, heart rate fluctuations, blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), and cold pressor tests. 

• The Crucial Role of Tilt Table Test and Other Diagnostic Tests

The tilt table test is helpful in monitoring if you meet the POTS disability criteria. If you experience rapid heart rate without a significant drop in blood pressure, then it is indicative of POTS. The tilt table test is important and it is combined with other tests to give an accurate diagnosis. Some other tests such as ECG and autonomic function tests, help to rule out conditions to analyze the severity of POTS. 

• Effective Treatment Options for POTS

There is no cure for POTS. However, multiple treatment strategies help to handle the symptoms of POTS. The treatment plan includes a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy. Some effective treatment options are as follows:

1. Lifestyle Changes: In lifestyle changes, an individual must drink plenty of water as dehydration will worsen the symptoms of POTS. Doctors recommend an increase in the intake of salt which helps to regulate blood volume and prevents dizziness. Wearing compression stockings will help to improve blood flow and increase slow movements thereby avoiding standing for long periods. Focusing on exercising is vital for improving blood flow and reducing the symptoms of POTS.

2. Medications: Some medications that help to treat POTS disability are:

• Beta Blockers

• Fludrocortisone

• Midodrine

• Ivabradine

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Other Antidepressants

3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:

People who are suffering from POTS need a physical therapist to guide them through exercises that will improve their endurance, muscle strength, and circulation. One of the common exercises to avoid exacerbating symptoms is recumbent exercises, which are low-impact exercises that are performed while sitting or lying down. 

Individuals may also try a graded exercise program which is an approach that helps to increase physical activity to improve cardiovascular health without giving stress to the body.  

4. Diet and Nutrition: People who are experiencing POTS must consume high-salt and high-fluid diet which will help to prevent symptoms of low blood pressure. A balanced diet containing nutrients such as vitamins, magnesium, and potassium will help to maintain your overall health.  

5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Stress Management: It is important to manage stress, and mental health can help to manage POTS. CBT can help to cope with chronic condition such as POTS. You can also practice deep breathing, yoga and meditation which can help to relieve stress and improve autonomic function. 

Navigating disability with POTS: Know your rights and Options

• Understanding eligibility for the SSDI and SSI

As POTS does not have a specific listing in the Blue Book of the SSA, two sections that may include this kind of disorder are Neurological – Section 11.00, and Digestive System – Section 5.00. The SSA will analyze the applicant if they are physically unable to do work. Therefore, if you have medical records and your symptoms are severe it will help to seek POTS disability benefits. 

POTS is one of a kind of dysautonomia that exhibits many symptoms. It is advisable that you must include documentation showing test results. The testing results may comprise a tilt table test that determines blood pressure and other heart fluctuations if any resulting in frequent changes in body position. Some other tests that may be presented as evidence are blood tests, urine tests, autonomic breathing tests, and digestive system tests. All these test reports must be provided to the SSA. 

Dysautonomia is not listed in the Compassionate Allowances Condition which suggests that disorders under this category will not be listed in automatic approval. They will be evaluated based on disability criteria and severity of symptoms.

In general, to qualify for disability for POTS, an individual must provide evidence of the following:

1. A diagnosis of POTS from a qualified medical professional

2. Medical evidence of a persistent increase in heart rate of 30 beats per minute or more within ten minutes of standing up, or a heart rate that exceeds 120 beats per minute

3. Medical evidence of a drop in blood pressure within three minutes of standing up

4. Evidence of symptoms such as fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness that significantly affect the individual’s ability to work

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Applying

You must ask yourself questions before you move forward with your POTS disability application. You may qualify for the benefits if your answer to the following questions is yes. 

1. Are you consulting a specialist for your POTS?

2. Do you have evidence of your diagnosis and symptoms of POTS?

3. Have I undergone any tests such as tilt tests, neuropsychological tests, or any other cardiovascular tests?

4. Are you experiencing disorganization of motor functions?

5. Are you struggling with other autoimmune disorders?

What To Do If Your POTS Meets The Eligibility Criteria Of SSA?

If your POTS meet the SSA’s criteria, you must begin with your application procedure as soon as possible. This is because the Social Security Disability Benefits process is complex and may take time. You must follow the guidelines mentioned below such as:

1. You must apply now if you have been diagnosed with POTS and have medical documentation. Furthermore, your symptoms are worsening even with regular treatment. 

2. You must consider waiting and applying later if your symptoms are improving with regular treatment and you can do work despite struggling with POTS.

3. You must not apply if you are working and earning above $1,550 per month 

What To Do If Your POTS Does Not Meet The Eligibility Criteria Of SSA?

If you do not meet the criteria mentioned above, you can still apply for the benefits by keeping one thing in mind you have to be honest with your application form. 

In many cases, the application form in the initial phase gets denied. You must not get discouraged and consider taking help from an attorney who has experience in handling POTS disease disability cases. 

What Type Of Benefits Should I Apply For?

There are two fundamental types of government programs that you can apply for:

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

2. Supplemental Insurance Income (SSI)

The applicants will be provided health insurance such as Medicare for SSDI and Medicaid for SSI. SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is beneficial for people who haven’t worked at all and have low assets and income. SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is beneficial for people who have worked and paid taxes for at least 10 full years or more.

How To Apply For Disability Benefits For POTS?

To apply for POTS disability benefits, you can follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability benefits. You must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability and have earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI.

2. Gather medical documentation: You will need to provide medical documentation that supports your POTS diagnosis, including medical records, test results, and any treatment plans you have been following.

3. Complete the application: You can apply for disability benefits online at the Social Security Administration’s website or by scheduling an appointment to apply in person at your local SSA office.

4. Wait for a decision: Once your application is submitted, the SSA will review your medical documentation and other information to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for disability benefits. This process can take several months or longer.

5. Appeal if necessary: If your initial application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You may want to consider working with a disability attorney to help with the appeals process. The SSA also assesses the residual functional capacity evaluation and also does vocational assessment of the disability applicant in case of denial. 

How Much Is a Disability Check For POTS?

The average monthly Social Security disability check for disorders associated with POTS was $1,550.43. However, the maximum benefit amount for POTS is $3,822 per month for SSDI and $914 per month for SSI in the year 2024.

• How to prove your disability: Gathering medical and vocational evidence

It may be challenging to prove your disability as it involves demonstrating that your medical condition limits your capability to perform everyday tasks. You may build your case by following the following points: 

1. Medical Records: You need to gather documentation from your healthcare providers that includes treatment plans, diagnosis, and other supporting blood tests. 

2. Specialist Opinions: Try to include reports from specialists that may be helpful to understand the intricacies of your medical condition. 

3. Vocational Evidence: It is important to include statements from your employers, coworkers, and other vocational experts who may help to speak and give a better idea of how your disability is affecting your ability to work. 

4. Functional Limitations: An applicant needs to provide evidence of the functional limitations that they are experiencing due to their disability. It may include challenges in stamina, mobility, and concentration. 

• Common mistakes to avoid in the application process

1. Incomplete or Inconsistent Information: An applicant must ensure that the information they are providing is accurate and complete. Any inconsistency in documentation may result in denial of claim or claim rejection. 

2. Not Seeking Help When Needed: It may be challenging to navigate disability applications for a common man. Therefore, it is vital to seek help from disability lawyers, if required. 

3. Failing to Follow Deadlines: If you miss a deadline, it may result in claim denials or delays. Therefore, you must ensure to follow all timelines for appeals and in submitting documentation. 

4. Underestimating the Importance of Detailed Medical Evidence: Any insufficient medical evidence may result in denials. Therefore, you must work with healthcare providers who will ensure up-to-date and detailed records. 

• Action steps if your application is denied

1. Review the Denial Letter: An applicant needs to understand the reasons for the denial of the claim. The denial letter will provide necessary insights on why your application was rejected.  

2. Gather Additional Documentation: You may work with your doctor for the provision of updated or detailed medical information. 

3. Appeal the Decision: You must follow the necessary guidelines to file an appeal or get help from a disability lawyer who can help to increase your chances of success. 

4. Request a Hearing: If the appeal does not solve your purpose, then you may request a hearing before the administrative law judge (ALJ). It is an important step in cases where the denial claim is to be contested. 

• Transitioning back into work: Accommodating employees with POTS

In transitioning back to work, the following are the steps for POTS disability accommodations.

1. Flexible Work Hours: Employees who are experiencing POTS may suffer from dizziness or fatigue at some time during the day. Therefore, they must be provided flexible work hours. 

2. Frequent Breaks: Individuals experiencing frequent rest breaks will face problems in standing or walking. It can help to manage your symptoms of POTS. 

3. Telecommuting Options: People suffering from POTS must be provided the capability to work in hybrid or remote mode. It will help the employees to manage their symptoms for long periods. 

4. Workplace Adjustments: With small adjustments, you can enhance the comfort for people suffering from POTS and disability by giving them easy access to a chair with back support and options to sit on the chair in between tasks. 

5. Communication and Support: It is important to establish clarity in the line of communication between employees and management with regard to adjustments and accommodations. The managers at the workplace need to be educated about the nature of POTS disability which will help to create an understanding environment.

Want To File a Disability Claim For POTS? Consult a Disability Law Firm

It is important to note that the application process for POTS disability benefits can be complex, and it may be helpful to consult with an experienced Social Security disability attorney to help with the process. They will help you to appeal in case your initial application gets rejected and will help in seeking the benefits.