Re: symptoms

Posted By CCF Neurology MD:NT on October 11, 1998 at 22:32:38:

In Reply to: symptoms posted by Dorothy on October 10, 1998 at 22:06:05:







:
: Thank you for the quick response.  I know I have postural orthostatic tachycardia via the tilt table test.  I have heard this can be associated with other disorders.
As for LEM, I had a lung scan done 8 months ago, and it was normal.  Ihave had these symptoms for a long time and they wax and wane.  Climbing stairs and other repetive things make my legs and arms very weak.  Also when I have extreme weakness I develope breathing problems.  I wash just wondering if you thought a nerology consult would be in order.  The doctor I am seeing for POTS is a cardiologist.  Although my heart rates are better now, I still do not feel well.  Thank you.


There was no response with the second post.  




Dear Dorothy:
A neurological consultation is appropriate. You would most benefit from seeing a neuromuscular specialist with a special interest in autonomic dysfunction. A possible muscular/neuromuscular junction problem can thus be adequately ruled out, and POTS can be fully addressed too.
Fatigue and lightheadedness in the upright position, as you surely know, is very common with POTS. It is possible that this problem fully accounts for your symptoms. POTS can be effectively treated.
POTS is most associated with a prior minor viral ifection, and there is some evidence to suggest that it is caused by a mild underlying autonomic small fiber neuropathy. The neurologist may need to perform some other autonomic and sensory tests to address this.
In case you can make it to Cleveland, I would recommend that you consult with Dr. Robert Shields, who is an autonomic and neuromuscular expert at the Cleveland Clinic. Appointments can be made by calling [phone], or (216)444-559 locally, Good luck!