Subscription Box Review - POTS Edition

Jun 8

I was diagnosed with POTS in my early 20’s while at college and I am still learning new things about my illness every day. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a rapid and substantial increase in heart rate upon changing position such as laying down to sitting up or sitting to standing. I know that doesn’t sound like much, but as a patient I can tell you there is a lot more to it than that. So much more. POTS is actually considered a disability and can be devastating for some. I will briefly touch on more of what’s involved with POTS, but the true goal of this article is to review a subscription box specifically for POTS patients.

What Does POTS Look Like?

Most people that have heard of POTS associate it with syncope, or fainting. While that is true, syncope is actually more of a result of the symptoms of POTS. Upon standing, blood pools in the legs and feet causing a lack of blood to the upper body. This causes your heart to work harder trying to pump the blood up, hence the increased heart rate. The lack of blood to your brain can cause dizziness, blurry vision and, ultimately, syncope. Why does the blood pool in the legs? Because our autonomic nervous system is not sending the appropriate signals to trigger an appropriate response to standing up. The picture to the right shows you a more lengthy list of symptoms associated with POTS and yes, I realize it’s a lot. It’s also helpful to know that heat, excessive standing, strenuous exercise and having your period can make these symptoms worse. There is no cure or medical managemet for POTS so we are left to manage our own symptoms and learn from each other. I increase my salt intake and hydrate like a motherf***er. While I am still able to drive and work, keep in mind there are other POTS patients that cannot. When someone tells you they have POTS, please be kind and don’t disregard it.

POTS Subscription Box

I was super excited when I saw a subscription box just for POTSies like me so of course, I ordered it. The purchase is made through an Etsy shop called So You Have POTS and they have a bunch of different merch to choose from. They do have a separate link for their subscription boxes that I will link below. I ordered the quarterly subscription box which essentially gives you a box each season with items to help you through that particular time of year. My latest box was the Spring box and, as you can see in the video, it was full of goodies. Prior to each box shipping, you are sent a questionnaire to help them cater the box to you regarding your preferences. It always arrives in a cute box that I get so excited to open. There’s always new hydration packets to try as well as other items like water bottles, personal fans, gloves, hand warmers, stickers, medical ID tag and more.

My Thoughts

If you have POTS or know someone that struggles with POTS, this subscription box is a great way to make them feel seen while also giving them tools that will help them. Whether you do a one-time purchase or opt for the subscription, the cost is $45/box including shipping which I find very affordable. Starting this subscription and trying the products they send has helped me learn so much about managing my symptoms and I could never thank them enough. I highly recommend this to anyone struggling with POTS.

Let me know below if there’s another subscription box you’d like me to review for you!

Until Next Time,

Happy Hydrating