Faculty Sponsor

Nicole Joy

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Department/Program

MSPA

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-22-2026

Abstract

Objective:

This review evaluates the association between post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also known as long-COVID, and the development of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) in a symptomatic adult population. It examines the spectrum of COVID-19-related autonomic dysfunction, identifies barriers to timely diagnosis, and discusses clinical implications for screening, symptom management, and the necessary specialist referrals.

Methods:

A narrative literature review was conducted using UpToDate, Google Scholar, citation tracking, and Research Rabbit to identify studies examining long-COVID syndrome, dysautonomia, and POTS. Peer-reviewed, English-language, full-text studies involving adults with long-COVID and dysautonomia were included, while studies published before 2020, acute COVID-19 infections, non-English publications, and studies without full-text availability were excluded.

Results:

Across the literature reviewed, approximately 22-79% of patients with symptomatic PASC met the diagnostic criteria for POTS, with prevalence varying by study methodology. Among patients who did not meet the criteria, varying degrees of dysautonomia were observed, supporting the concept that POTS falls on a spectrum of COVID-19-related autonomic dysfunction. Across all PASC patients, regardless of diagnosis, there was a significant overlap of fatigue, dizziness, and reduced physical capacity. Individuals with long-COVID-associated POTS also reported a reduced quality of life and greater socioeconomic burden.

Conclusion:

Current evidence supports a strong clinical correlation between long-COVID and the development of POTS, while recognizing that POTS represents only one manifestation of long-COVID dysautonomia. Proper symptomatic control, patient education, and timely specialist referrals may improve quality of life from a multidisciplinary approach.

Keywords: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; Long-COVID; Autonomic Dysfunction

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Bridget Pollard has an anticipated graduation date of July 2026 from the Valparaiso University Physician Assistant Program. She plans on working in oncology, cardiology, or emergency medicine. Bridget Pollard was inspired to research the topic of “Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome as a Sequela of Long-COVID-19: Recognizing The Clinical Spectrum of COVID-19 Related Dysautonomia" because of her interest in cardiology. 

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