POTS

[EmsMama]

My daughter was diagnosed with POTS in June of 2008. Before this diagnosis her GP put her on Paxil to help treat her orthostatic hypertension symptoms. Her symptoms worsened, passing out, constantly lightheaded when we were referred to a cardiologist who diagnosed her with POTS.  He put her on Florinef..no difference. He then increased her to 2pills/day which caused her severe headaches ..even passed out while sitting in a chair at school. That was decreased back down to 1. Midrodrine was tried...side effects were worse than symptoms. Doctor has now discontinued her Paxil. She was only on 1 5mg/day since June. Within 2 days she got the "flu" sick for 3 day. Vomiting, severe headache, body aches. Everything but the headache is gone. Could d/c the Paxil cause this? The headaches severity changes but it is always there.....She still is constantly lightheaded--is there any suggestions to deal with all of this?


This discussion is related to Orthostatic Headache connected to Blood Pressure.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Paxil withdrawal can cause brain zaps, severe vertigo and hot flashes .It also increases depressive thoughts. Paxil withdrawal does not cause headaches.
It is possible that headaches and light headedness are due to inadequate control of orthostatic hypertension. It is difficult to tell without examination.
Please consult her doctor about this. Let us know if you need more information.