Hi everyone,
I’ve recently been diagnosed with dysautonomia, and a neurologist is confident I also have POTS based on my symptoms. I’m still in the early stages of understanding all of this, but it’s been really validating to finally have some answers.
I’m mainly posting to see if anyone relates to my experience with adderall (or maybe other adhd meds)
About 2 years ago, I was diagnosed with ADHD and started Adderall. A few months later, I began developing early POTS-like symptoms. Looking back now, I’m wondering if Adderall may have unmasked or worsened my dysautonomia (which was dormant) especially since this all happened around a really stressful period where I was also grieving my brother.
What I experience on Adderall (especially at peak) is:
-irritability / feeling on edge
-emotional blunting or feeling “flat” (like I can’t even form a smile)
-no desire to talk or be around people
-low patience, becoming snappy without meaning to
-feeling withdrawn, dry, and almost shutdown socially
-no energy
-easily overstimulated
It helps my focus, but with POTS in the mix, it almost feels like my body is stuck in a constant stress response.
Has anyone with POTS/dysautonomia had a similar reaction to Adderall or other stimulants?
And what meds did you find worked better for you? Also I suffer from low blood pressure due to my POTs
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this/and or reply!