VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION

Vagus nerve stimulation is a substitute therapy for a patient with multifocal epilepsy and major depression. It is also useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease, obesity, and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Initial VNS requires general anesthesia, and patients with other implant devices may require anesthesia in surgical procedures. 

Vagus nerve stimulation is a medical treatment that uses an electrical impulse in the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is one of the 12 pairs of cranial nerves that arise in the brain that is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions. This nerve passes through the neck as it goes between the chests and abdomen and to the lower part of the brain, whereas it is connected in the motor function of the voice box, diaphragm, heart, and sensory functions. 

TYPES

The vagus nerves sensory functions are divided into two components, these are 

  • Somatic components – these are the sensation in the skin or in the muscles that you will feel. 
  • Visceral components – these are the sensation in the different organs of the body that you will feel. 

SYMPTOMS 

Nerve damage – it is damage in the vagus nerve that can cause many symptoms. It affects a lots of areas such as:

  • Pain in the ear
  • Difficulty in speaking or loss of voice
  • Trouble in drinking liquids 
  • Abnormal blood pressure 
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Decreased production of stomach acid
  • Abdominal pain and bloating

The symptoms depend on what part of the nerve is damaged. 

Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the spontaneous contractions of the digestive system, which stops the stomach from emptying properly. 

  • Acid reflux
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Weight loss
  • Changes in blood sugar
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite or feeling full for small meals 

Few patients develop gastroparesis after undergoing a vagotomy treatment that removes all parts of the vagus nerve. 

  • Vasovagal syncope 
  • Fear of body harm
  • Having blood drawn
  • Exposure in extreme heat
  • Straining or trying to have a bowel movement 

Always remember that the vagus nerve stimulates some muscles in the heart that slow heart rate. When it reacts, it causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure that results in fainting. 

DIAGNOSIS

Before performing a vagus nerve stimulation, doctors will evaluate the medical condition of the patient. They will ask about your medical history as well as family history. It is required to mention all the medications you take, including over the counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products. 

A neurologist will confirm the diagnosis of epilepsy or other disorder that causing a seizure, and they will ask you to undergo an imaging test, including 

  • Computed Tomography 
  • Ultrasound 
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging

TREATMENT

Vagus nerve stimulation is used to reduce the occurrence and intensity of seizures when medication is not sufficient. This device is like a heart pacemaker to stimulate the left vagus nerve. It sends an electrical signal in the brain, and it manually attempts in the interruption of seizure that’s just beginning.

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