This week in Parliament, Martin met with representatives of PoTS UK, a charity which assists those suffering from Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS).
PoTS is an autonomic nervous system abnormality where sitting, standing and exercise can cause symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, brainfog, dizziness, blackouts, pain, fainting, vomiting and fatigue. Many people suffer a combination of symptoms, which can be chronic and debilitating, and, in some cases, leaving people bedridden. Studies from the US suggest that PoTS impacts roughly 2 in 1000 people and that the majority of those impacted are younger women and children.
While there is currently no permanent cure for PoTS, studies indicate that 90% of people with a diagnosis of PoTS have improved or managed symptoms due to medically guided treatments. However, due to the lack of awareness and recognition of PoTS symptoms, the average time from onset to diagnosis is 7years. Many people wait years to get the diagnosis and medical support that could dramatically improve their quality of life.
Following his meeting with PoTS UK, Martin has agreed to write to the local Integrated Care Board (ICB) to raise the above concerns.
You can find out more about PoTS UK online here: https://www.potsuk.org/
