Lymphoma Or just POTS? or both?

   So 10 months ago I was scanned for a lymph node in my neck all came back clear and I felt okay in myself. 

Then come January (2 months after scan)I started getting seriously fatigued. Felt like I couldn’t move, breathless when moving, dizziness, syncope. March comes along and I’m hospitalised with an infection and sent home with a POTS diagnosis. 

so I continue to live daily with POTS issues. Then we get to may and I’m starting to seriously struggle. waking feeling like I have the flu constantly, any exercise leaves me in pain and with massive confusion. I’m forgetting things, I have brain fog constantly, bone pain in my hip joints. Then I notice the upper part of my jaw under my ear has a swollen lymph node, it’s hard and semi mobile. It’s not like the others it’s inconsistent in shape and has a funny edge. 
I saw my gp about it and we left it a few more weeks. Went back and it was still there. 
I also went to the opticians and they say I’ve got significant sight reduction in my left eye (the same side of the lump) 

I’ve been referred for another scan and had FBC and phlembotomy bloods done (awaiting results) 

but I’m just wondering, can cancers cause POTS? Or is POTS just that bad. Also how could I advocate for correct help? I’ve had about 15 doctors appointments in the last 6 months and basically been shrugged at.  I’m in pain most of the time and have gone from being an active 25 year old to struggling to even walk the dog. 

  • Hello and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear about your symptoms and how they are making you unwell.

    POTS (Postural Tachycardia Syndrome) is not associated with cancer. Although I can see that there has been some research linking it to cancer it is in particular relation to cancer treatment. However, there is no definite association with cancer that I can see. 

    The British Heart Foundation does not link POTS to cancer,  you can see their information about it  here.

    There is also a UK support group called POTS UK they also have information and support, you can see their website here.

    It is reassuring to know that you are going to have a scan and bloods done in relation to your lymph nodes. These are the best tests to have done to see what, if anything, is the matter.

    I realise that this is a worrying time for you so I hope you have some support.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline