For April, summer isn’t about long days at the beach or soaking up the sun—it’s about finding balance, rest, and comfort while living with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). April has learned how to adapt her days and still enjoy meaningful moments.
Keep reading to hear April’s story in her own words.
Staying Cool and Connected While Managing POTS
I usually stay in the air conditioning during the hot summer days because heat makes my POTS symptoms worse. To manage my chronic illness in the summer, I run my daily saline infusions, focus on hydration, and make sure I’m eating enough salt. These small but important habits help keep my body more stable.
Since I spend a lot of time indoors, I’ve found new ways to stay connected and engaged. Playing video games with my friends and family has become one of my favorite things to do. It’s more than just entertainment—it’s a way to laugh, bond, and feel close to the people I care about, even when I can’t leave the house.
Learning to Adjust Summer Plans with Chronic Illness
This past summer, we planned a big trip, and I was really excited. But when the time came, I felt far too sick to participate in anything once I got there. It was disappointing, but it also reminded me of something important: not everything goes as planned when you’re living with a chronic illness, and that’s okay.
Instead of pushing myself, I focused on doing what I needed most—resting and taking care of my health. Managing POTS in the summer often means adjusting expectations and honoring my limits. While it’s not always easy, I’ve learned that self-care has to come first, even when it means missing out.
Finding Fun Indoors During the Summer
A lot of people think about summer as being all about the outdoors—pool parties, barbecues, or long days in the sunshine. But I’ve learned that you can still have a fun summer indoors! For me, that means video games, movies, or simply hanging out with loved ones.
Managing chronic illness in the summer doesn’t mean missing out completely—it just means redefining what fun looks like. I’ve realized that joy isn’t tied to being outside; it’s about the people I spend time with and the little things that make me happy.
Redefining Summer on My Own Terms
Everyone’s summer looks different, and that’s okay. There’s no rulebook or expectation for what the season should look like, especially if you’re living with POTS or another chronic illness. For me, the most important thing is listening to my body and doing what’s best for my health.
Even though my summer might not look like everyone else’s, I’ve found so many ways to make it special. By prioritizing hydration, staying cool, and creating joyful indoor moments, I’ve learned that summer can still be fun—it just looks a little different for me.
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