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Teen's Heart Attack Fear: POTS Mystery Solved
27 Feb
Summary
- A 16-year-old experienced severe chest pain and rapid heart rate, initially feared as a heart attack.
- She was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a rare nervous system disorder.
- POTS symptoms can mimic anxiety, delaying diagnosis and impacting daily life significantly.
At just 16 years old, Darcie Warner experienced alarming chest pain and a sky-high heart rate, fearing a heart attack. She was later diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a chronic nervous system disorder affecting blood flow and heart rate, which impacts an estimated 135,000 people. The condition is most prevalent in women aged 15 to 50.
Initially, Darcie's symptoms were misdiagnosed as anxiety due to their similarity. This led to a difficult period where she doubted herself and isolated herself from social activities. After two years, her Apple Watch flagging dangerously high heart rates at rest prompted a push for further investigation.
While POTS has no cure, symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, diet, and specific exercises. Darcie is now studying radiography and working to regain her confidence, hoping her story raises awareness for others experiencing similar, often misunderstood, health issues.
