Summary

Katherine McCrackin shares her experience with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and the challenges she has faced in getting medical help. She discusses how her symptoms developed after surgery and the difficulty she had in finding doctors who believed her and could provide proper care. Lauren Clark and Tori Mosser also share their experiences with POTS and the lack of knowledge and understanding among doctors. They talk about the importance of finding supportive doctors and the role of the POTS community in providing information and support. They also discuss the challenges of being a student with POTS and the need for more accessibility on college campuses. The conversation revolves around the challenges and experiences of individuals with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and dysautonomia. They discuss the difficulties of getting a proper diagnosis, the lack of understanding and awareness of these conditions, and the impact on daily life and career choices. They also touch on the topic of medical gaslighting and the importance of trusting one's own experiences and advocating for oneself. The conversation highlights the need for more accessibility and accommodations in various settings, including the arts and corporate America.

Takeaways

• POTS can be triggered by surgery and can cause debilitating symptoms
• Many doctors are unfamiliar with POTS and may dismiss or misdiagnose patients
• Finding supportive doctors who understand POTS is crucial for proper care
• The POTS community provides valuable information and support for those with the condition
• Accessibility and accommodations are important for students with POTS Getting a proper diagnosis for POTS and dysautonomia can be challenging due to a lack of understanding and awareness of these conditions.
• Medical gaslighting is a common issue faced by individuals with POTS and dysautonomia, and it is important to trust one's own experiences and advocate for oneself.
• Living with POTS and dysautonomia can have a significant impact on daily life and career choices, requiring accommodations and accessibility.
• The arts industry may be more accommodating to individuals with chronic illnesses like POTS, while corporate America may present more challenges.
• Connecting with others in the POTS and dysautonomia community can provide support, advice, and validation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience with POTS

08:23 The Lack of Awareness and Knowledge Among Doctors

14:24 The Lack of Accessibility on College Campuses

40:45 Trusting Your Experiences and Instincts

Summary

In this episode, Lauren and Tori interview their moms about their experiences as parents of children with POTS. They discuss the challenges and emotions they faced when their children were first diagnosed and how POTS has affected their daily lives. They also talk about the importance of finding the right doctors and treatments, as well as the need for accommodations in school and work settings. The conversation highlights the impact of POTS on both the individuals with the condition and their families. The conversation revolves around the challenges faced by individuals with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and their parents. They discuss the difficulties in getting a proper diagnosis, the impact of POTS on daily life, and the frustration of being dismissed by doctors. They also touch on the potential genetic factors and triggers for POTS, such as concussions and COVID-19. The conversation highlights the need for more research and understanding of POTS, as well as the importance of finding knowledgeable doctors who can provide appropriate care. In this final part of the conversation, Lauren and Tori discuss the challenges of managing POTS in daily life and the difficulties of finding specialized doctors. They express their frustration with the lack of accessible treatment options and the impact of POTS on their education and career opportunities. They also discuss the importance of finding doctors who specialize in POTS and the need for more research and awareness. The conversation ends with a call for better support and resources for individuals with POTS and their families.

Takeaways

• Parents of children with POTS face unique challenges and emotions when their child is diagnosed.
• Finding the right doctors and treatments is crucial for managing POTS.
• Accommodations in school and work settings are necessary to support individuals with POTS.
• POTS not only affects the individual with the condition, but also their family members. Getting a proper diagnosis for POTS can be challenging, and individuals often face dismissal and medical gaslighting from doctors.
• POTS may have genetic factors and can be triggered by events such as concussions and COVID-19.
• There is a need for more research and understanding of POTS, as well as knowledgeable doctors who can provide appropriate care.
• Parents play a crucial role in advocating for their children with POTS and navigating the healthcare system.

Living with POTS can have a significant impact on daily life, including limitations on physical activities and the need for lifestyle adjustments.

The conversation highlights the importance of support networks and finding ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Managing POTS in daily life can be challenging and limiting, affecting education and career opportunities

Finding specialized doctors who understand POTS is crucial for effective treatment

There is a need for more accessible treatment options and resources for individuals with POTS

Increased research and awareness are necessary to improve understanding and support for POTS

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

07:27 Navigating the Medical System: Finding the Right Doctors and Treatments

14:31 The Impact of POTS on Families: Supporting Loved Ones

32:08 Genetic Factors and Triggers for POTS

40:51 The Impact of POTS on Daily Life

48:19 Parental Advocacy and Navigating the Healthcare System

Summary

In this episode of Dizzy Directors, Tori's boyfriend Jacob joins the conversation to share his firsthand experience of witnessing Tori's episodes of POTS flare-ups. They discuss how they met, the embarrassing moments, and the challenges of dealing with POTS in their relationship. They also talk about the difficulties of getting proper medical care and the need to advocate for themselves. They share stories of episodes happening on set during film productions and how they navigate those situations. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of support and understanding in managing POTS. In this conversation, Lauren and Tori discuss various topics including their experiences with health issues, the challenges they face in daily life, and the unique aspects of living in different regions. They also touch on the presence of horses on their college campuses and share anecdotes about unusual incidents that have occurred at their schools.

Takeaways

• Having a supportive partner who understands and witnesses your POTS episodes can make a big difference in managing the condition.
• Medical gaslighting and the need to advocate for oneself are common challenges faced by individuals with POTS.
• Episodes of POTS can happen at any time and in any setting, including on film sets.
• Open communication and educating others about POTS can help create a supportive environment.
• Proper medical care and access to IV fluids are essential in managing POTS flare-ups. Living with chronic health issues can be challenging and inconvenient
• Having a support system of understanding friends and family is important
• Regional differences can impact daily life experiences
• Unusual incidents can occur at college campuses
• Finding remote internships can be beneficial for individuals with health issues

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:04 Experiencing POTS Episodes on Film Sets

12:08 Dealing with Medical Gaslighting and Advocating for Care

29:22 Experiences with Health Issues

39:31 Unusual Incidents at College Campuses

53:53 Regional Differences and Daily Life Experiences

Summary

In this episode of Dizzy Directors, Rey shares their experience living with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and how it has affected their life in college. They discuss their journey of self-discovery and the challenges they faced in getting diagnosed with various conditions. They also talk about the frustrations of navigating the medical system and the lack of understanding and support from some healthcare professionals. Rey emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, self-care, and finding a supportive community of friends who understand their experiences.

Takeaways

• Living with POTS can be challenging and often involves navigating a complex medical system.
• Self-advocacy and self-care are crucial for managing chronic illnesses like POTS.
• Finding a supportive community of friends who understand your experiences can provide valuable support.
• The medical system can be frustrating and may involve medical gaslighting, but it's important to persist in seeking proper diagnosis and treatment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

00:49 Ray's Experience with POTS and College

05:23 Challenges in Getting Diagnosed and Internalized Ableism

07:48 Frustrations with the Medical System

09:42 Different Experiences with POTS Diagnosis

11:35 Dealing with Medical Gaslighting

16:07 Navigating College and Disability Services

25:01 Managing Temperature Control and Accommodations

28:45 Connecting with Others with POTS

32:31 Sharing Experiences and Building Supportive Friendships

38:09 Overcoming Internalized Ableism

39:43 Balancing Treatment Options and Challenges

43:57 Advice for Those with POTS or Chronic Illness

45:30 Conclusion

Summary

Dr. Bianca Miret, a chiropractic neurologist and functional medicine practitioner, discusses her approach to treating POTS and dysautonomia. She explains the role of the vagus nerve and the interconnectedness of various systems in the body. Dr. Miret emphasizes the importance of a personalized treatment approach and addresses common symptoms of dysautonomia. She also discusses the prevalence of POTS in men and women and the challenges of getting a proper diagnosis. Additionally, she highlights the significance of lifestyle changes in managing POTS and dysautonomia. In this conversation, Dr.Bianca Miret discusses individualized treatment for dysautonomia, emphasizing the importance of personalized recommendations. She explains the connection between blood sugar fluctuations and the stress response in dysautonomia patients. Dr. Miret also highlights the significance of balancing blood sugar and meal frequency, as well as maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm. She addresses the misconception that POTS is solely a cardiac condition and emphasizes its neurological nature. Dr. Miret advocates for increased awareness of dysautonomia and the need for collaboration between the functional and medical communities in healthcare. She also discusses the potential future advancements in understanding the genetic component of dysautonomia and preventive measures.

Takeaways

• Chiropractic neurology and functional medicine can be effective in treating POTS and dysautonomia.
• The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in dysautonomia and can be targeted for treatment.
• Symptoms of dysautonomia can vary and may include dizziness, unexplained anxiety, gut dysfunction, and sleep disturbances.
• POTS is more prevalent in women, but men can also be affected.
• A personalized approach to treatment is necessary, considering the individual's specific symptoms and underlying dysfunctions.
• Lifestyle changes, such as adjusting water and electrolyte intake, can be beneficial in managing POTS and dysautonomia. Dysautonomia treatment should be individualized and tailored to each patient's specific needs.
• Balancing blood sugar and meal frequency is crucial for dysautonomia patients.
• Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm can help stabilize cortisol levels and improve energy throughout the day.
• Dysautonomia is a neurological condition that involves dysfunction in the brain's communication with the heart and other systems.
• Increased awareness and collaboration between the functional and medical communities are needed to improve dysautonomia diagnosis and treatment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Explanation of Chiropractic Neurology

02:15 Overview of Carolina Functional Neurology Center

03:15 Treatment Approach for POTS and Dysautonomia

05:56 Prevalence of POTS in Men and Women

09:50 Common Symptoms of Dysautonomia

15:35 The Role of the Vagus Nerve in Dysautonomia

25:17 Key Lifestyle Changes for POTS and Dysautonomia

26:21 Individualized Treatment for Dysautonomia

27:38 The Importance of Personalized Recommendations

28:07 Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Stress Response

29:28 Balancing Blood Sugar and Meal Frequency

30:45 Circadian Rhythm and Cortisol

31:17 Treating the Whole Person

33:01 POTS as a Neurological Issue

36:32 Increasing Awareness of Dysautonomia

39:35 Medical Gaslighting and Misdiagnosis

42:16 Recognizing Early Signs of Illness

45:52 The Future of Medicine

Summary

In this episode, Lauren Clark discusses the impact of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) on women during their menstrual cycles. She shares advice and research findings on managing POTS symptoms during menstruation, including the importance of salt intake, hydration, and self-care. Lauren also explores the connection between lightheadedness and POTS, as well as the potential for abnormal menstrual cycles in individuals with POTS. She emphasizes the need to track symptoms and seek medical advice. The episode concludes with a discussion on preventing POTS flares and the importance of understanding and managing POTS symptoms.

Takeaways

• Managing POTS symptoms during menstruation requires attention to salt intake, hydration, and self-care.

• Lightheadedness is a common symptom of POTS, and it can be more pronounced during menstruation.

• Individuals with POTS may experience abnormal menstrual cycles, and tracking symptoms is important for understanding the condition.

• Preventing POTS flares involves getting rest, staying hydrated, and following medical advice.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Topic

00:56 Managing POTS Symptoms during Menstruation

05:47 Abnormal Cycles and POTS

07:42 Symptoms of POTS and Menstruation

09:41 Preventing POTS Flares

10:40 Research on POTS and Menstruation

13:06 Characteristic Symptoms of POTS

14:35 Living with POTS and Menstruation

15:33 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

Summary

In this episode, hosts Lauren and Tori introduce themselves and their podcast, Dizzy Directors, where they discuss POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and dysautonomia. They share their personal experiences with POTS and how it has impacted their lives as filmmakers. The conversation covers topics such as misdiagnosis, symptoms, medications, challenges in daily life, and the support they receive from professors and accommodations. They also discuss the importance of raising awareness about POTS and using filmmaking as a platform to share their stories and help others. This conversation explores the topic of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and its impact on the lives of individuals. The conversation covers various aspects of POTS, including symptoms, heart rate fluctuations, blood pressure, managing episodes, and the challenges faced by individuals with POTS. The conversation also delves into the effects of temperature on POTS symptoms and the importance of support from friends and family. The hosts discuss the origin of the name 'Dizzy Directors' and how POTS can affect creativity as a director. They also touch on the challenges of student filmmaking and the need for understanding and flexibility in the industry.

Takeaways

POTS is a medical condition that affects the autonomic nervous system and can cause a range of symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and heart palpitations.

Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are common with POTS, and it can take time to find the right treatment and management strategies.

Living with POTS can present challenges in daily life, including difficulties with physical exertion, social interactions, and managing symptoms.

Supportive professors and accommodations can make a significant difference for individuals with POTS who are pursuing careers in filmmaking or other demanding fields.

Raising awareness about POTS and sharing personal experiences through platforms like filmmaking can help educate others and provide support to those living with the condition. POTS is a condition characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, high heart rate, and blood pressure fluctuations.

Individuals with POTS may experience different variations of the condition, including seizures and fainting.

Managing POTS episodes involves staying hydrated, consuming salt, and taking prescribed medications.

Supportive reactions from friends and family during POTS episodes can be helpful, while panicking or overreacting can worsen the situation.

Temperature fluctuations can significantly impact POTS symptoms, with individuals experiencing both heat intolerance and cold sensitivity.

Directing with POTS can be challenging due to the physical and mental demands of the role, as well as the unpredictable nature of the condition.

Student filmmaking presents additional challenges, such as unreliable crew members and limited resources.

Balancing work and health as a director with POTS requires understanding and flexibility from both the individual and their team.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dizzy Directors

01:13 Understanding POTS and Dysautonomia

03:20 Personal Experiences with POTS

06:27 Misdiagnosis and Medical Journey

08:19 Challenges and Symptoms of POTS

10:05 Medications and Treatment Options

12:34 Impact on Daily Life and Social Interactions

21:13 Supportive Professors and Accommodations

25:10 Using Filmmaking to Raise Awareness

27:36 Q&A: Explaining POTS and Personal Experiences

28:15 Understanding POTS

29:07 Symptoms and Variations of POTS

30:03 Heart Rate and POTS

31:12 Effects of POTS on Daily Life

32:15 Chronic Nature of POTS

33:05 Genetic Testing for POTS

34:13 Diagnosing POTS

35:13 Blood Pressure and POTS

36:21 Managing POTS Episodes

37:32 Supportive Reactions to POTS Episodes

38:46 What Others Should Know About POTS

39:21 Managing POTS with Salt and Water

40:06 Safety Precautions During POTS Episodes

42:35 Temperature and POTS

47:42 Origin of the Name 'Dizzy Directors'

48:56 Impact of POTS on Creativity as a Director

52:39 Challenges of Directing with POTS

58:31 Challenges of Student Filmmaking

01:00:48 Balancing Work and Health as a Director

01:01:04 Conclusion