Vagus nerve stimulation
Neuromodulation is a component of this therapeutic approach. The vagus nerve transmits impulses between the brain and body. In a minor operation, an electrical pacemaker is implanted beneath the chest’s epidermis. This implant’s fibre or lead is connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. The implant functions as a generator, intermittently stimulating the vagus nerve. The frequency and intensity of these impulses can be modified. A hand-held magnet can also be utilised to enhance the intensity of seizure-related impulses. Modern implants incorporate a cardiac rate sensor. A minor increase in heart rate is indicative of an impending seizure, and the implant increases impulses automatically.
The generator’s impulses interfere with the surge of impulses emitted during a seizure. It is reported that vagus nerve stimulation is effective in at least 40 percent of cases, where effectiveness is measured by reduced frequency and severity of seizures, and not elimination of seizures. This therapy gives epileptic patients a sense of control over their seizures and may therefore enhance their quality of life.
VNS therapy functions as an adjunct to medication treatment. It is only used if other treatments, such as medication and surgery, have failed to control seizures. In an optimal situation, VNS may aid in reducing the drug load required to control epilepsy. Some potential side effects include:
cardiac symptoms
Weakness of the voice
Problems with ingesting
Sleep problems
tingling feeling
coughing and respiratory distress
