Many people with ME/CFS are also affected by postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) which is an autonomic nervous system issue – the symptoms (in simple terms) of which being associated with an abnormally high and persistent increase in heart rate shortly after standing upright, therefore treatment are of interest.
Rachael Maskell MP submitted a Parlaimentary Question on treatment options for PoTS on 11th July 2023 centred on intravenous fluids and received an answer from Will Quince MP (Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)) a few days later.
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of IV fluid interventions on patients with Postural tachycardia syndrome; and if he will take steps to support this treatment at York Hospital.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has made no assessment of the potential impact of IV fluid interventions on patients with postural tachycardia syndrome. Therefore, there are no plans to support this treatment at York Hospital.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has published guidance on myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and recommends being aware that people with these conditions may experience orthostatic intolerance, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. It does not make any recommendations on management or treatment; however, it does recommend that people with ME/CFS should maintain fluid intake as part of healthy diet.
UK Parliament Written Question UIN 193511
