Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a primary form of Dysautonomia, was first formally characterized in the medical literature in 1993 by Dr. Blair Grubb and Dr.
4 people with Dysautonomia / POTS have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
What is the history of Dysautonomia / POTS?
History of Dysautonomia / POTS: when and how it was discovered, and the milestones in research since, medically reviewed.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a primary form of Dysautonomia, was first formally characterized in the medical literature in 1993 by Dr. Blair Grubb and Dr. Phillip Low, though historical accounts of similar symptoms date back to the American Civil War.
From "Soldier's Heart" to Modern Diagnosis
Historically, symptoms associated with Dysautonomia were often mislabeled. During the American Civil War, physicians observed soldiers suffering from rapid heart rates and dizziness, calling the condition "Soldier’s Heart" or "Da Costa’s Syndrome." For decades, these patients were frequently dismissed as having "neurocirculatory asthenia" or psychological anxiety, a historical misconception that caused immense frustration for those living with the condition.
Evolution of Understanding
The clinical landscape shifted significantly in the 1990s when researchers identified that POTS involved a specific failure of the autonomic nervous system to regulate blood flow upon standing. Rather than being a psychiatric disorder, Dysautonomia was recognized as a physiological dysfunction. Technological advancements, such as the tilt table test, became the gold standard for diagnosis, allowing clinicians to objectively measure the orthostatic heart rate increase that defines the condition.
Advocacy and Future Directions
Patient advocacy has been the driving force behind the increased recognition of POTS. Organizations like Dysautonomia International have transformed the narrative from one of medical mystery to one of legitimate systemic illness. Modern research is now pivoting toward the genetic and autoimmune underpinnings of the disease. We are currently exploring how connective tissue disorders, like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and post-viral triggers contribute to the development of Dysautonomia, moving us closer to targeted, personalized therapies rather than just symptom management.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
- Dysautonomia International
- Orphanet: The portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Posted Aug 17, 2017 by Miranda 2150
The diagnosis is achieved through functional testing of the autonomic nervous system, focusing on the organ system affected. Investigations may be performed to identify underlying disease processes that may have led to the development of symptoms or autonomic neuropathy. Symptomatic treatment is available for many symptoms associated with dysautonomia, and some disease processes can be treated directly.[2]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysautonomia
Posted Sep 28, 2017 by Lbond94 4100
Posted Jun 2, 2017 by Aurora Saez 3201
Posted Sep 10, 2017 by Annie 2050
