POTS/Chronic fatigue /MCAS/Fybromyalgia

Written By Sonic Searle

POTS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Mast cell activational syndrome (MCAS) & Fibromyalgia

Living with conditions such as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Fibromyalgia can have a profound impact on quality of life. These complex conditions often affect multiple body systems, making everyday activities feel exhausting and unpredictable. Symptoms can fluctuate from day to day, leaving many people feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and misunderstood.

What are POTS, CFS, MCAS and Fibromyalgia?

Although they are distinct conditions, they often occur together and share many overlapping symptoms. Many people experience a combination of fatigue, pain, dizziness, brain fog and nervous system dysregulation.

People living with these conditions may experience:

  • Persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest

  • Widespread muscle and joint pain

  • Dizziness or light-headedness, particularly when standing

  • Brain fog, poor concentration and memory difficulties

  • Poor or unrefreshing sleep

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Digestive disturbances

  • Sensitivity to foods, medications, temperature or environmental triggers

  • Heart palpitations or rapid heart rate

  • Exercise intolerance and prolonged recovery after physical activity

What causes these conditions?

The exact cause of these conditions is still being researched and is likely different for each individual. However, several factors are thought to contribute to their development.

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A disorder of the autonomic nervous system where the heart rate increases excessively when moving from lying or sitting to standing. This can lead to dizziness, palpitations, fatigue and exercise intolerance.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): A complex condition characterised by profound fatigue, post-exertional symptom worsening, poor sleep and cognitive dysfunction. It may develop following viral infections, significant illness or other physical stressors.

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): A condition in which mast cells release excessive inflammatory chemicals, leading to symptoms such as flushing, itching, digestive complaints, allergies, headaches and sensitivity to foods or environmental triggers.

Fibromyalgia: A chronic pain condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, poor sleep and heightened sensitivity of the nervous system.

Other factors that may contribute include:

  • Viral infections

  • Physical trauma or injury

  • Chronic stress

  • Nervous system dysregulation

  • Autoimmune conditions

  • Hormonal changes

  • Genetic predisposition

Acupuncture for POTS, CFS, MCAS & Fibromyalgia

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to support people living with complex chronic illnesses. Treatment aims to restore balance within the body, regulate the nervous system and improve overall function. It may assist by:

Regulating the nervous system: Many people with these conditions have an overactive or dysregulated autonomic nervous system. Acupuncture may help calm the body’s stress response, encouraging a shift into a more restorative state that supports healing and recovery.

Reducing pain: Acupuncture may help reduce widespread muscle aches, joint pain, headaches and chronic pain by improving circulation, reducing muscle tension and encouraging the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

Supporting energy levels: While acupuncture is not a cure for chronic fatigue, many patients report improvements in energy, sleep quality and overall resilience when treatments are appropriately tailored to their condition and tolerance.

Improving sleep: Poor quality sleep can worsen fatigue, pain and cognitive symptoms. Acupuncture may help regulate sleep patterns, allowing for deeper and more restorative sleep.

Supporting circulation and autonomic function: For people with POTS, acupuncture may help support healthy circulation and assist the body’s ability to regulate changes in posture as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Reducing stress and anxiety: Living with chronic illness can place significant emotional strain on individuals and their families. Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system and may help reduce stress, anxiety and feelings of overwhelm.

Balancing the flow of Qi: From a Chinese Medicine perspective, these conditions often reflect underlying imbalances involving the body’s Qi, Blood and Organ systems. Treatment aims to restore harmony, strengthen the body’s vitality and improve its ability to adapt to physical and emotional stress.

Other tips to help manage these conditions

In addition to acupuncture, several lifestyle strategies may help improve symptom management.

  • Chinese herbal medicine may help address each individual’s underlying pattern of imbalance.

  • Prioritise pacing and avoid pushing through severe fatigue.

  • Aim for consistent, restorative sleep habits.

  • Stay well hydrated and maintain adequate electrolyte intake (particularly for people with POTS if recommended by your healthcare team).

  • Eat a nutritious diet and identify any foods that may trigger symptoms.

  • Engage in gentle movement where appropriate, while respecting your body’s limits.

  • Work closely with your GP and specialists to ensure a coordinated treatment approach.

For more information or assistance with the management of POTS, CFS, MCAS or Fibromyalgia, feel free to GET IN TOUCH or come visit the Red Door Clinic in Caulfield.

Disclaimer: Each individual’s treatment and/or results may vary depending on their specific presentation. No results can be promised or guaranteed from receiving treatment. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are intended to complement, not replace, conventional medical care.

Sonic Searle
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