Vagus Nerve Stimulation, or VNS, is another form of treatment that may be tried if other treatments have failed. VNS is designed to stop seizures before they begin by using a medical device to stimulate the vagus nerve, which is on the left side of the neck. A small battery, about the size of a silver dollar, is implanted under the skin of the patient’s left chest wall. The doctor programs the battery to emit bursts of electricity at regular intervals along the left vagus nerve via electrodes wrapped around the nerve. This regular flow of electricity has an anti-seizure effect in some patients and is used an adjunctive therapy in reducing the frequency, length or severity of seizures.
VNS Therapy has been proven in clinical studies to provide a safe and effective way to control seizures for many patients. For many, the results include improved, for many , is an improvement in alertness and memory as well as plus more energy and a better disposition. Because mood. And because it is not a drug, the VNS has allowed many people to reduce the number or dosage of medications they take.
The VNS does not typically cause side effects like depression, confusion, weight gain, fatigue, insomnia, or low energy. The most common side effects include hoarseness, a prickling feeling on the skin, shortness of breath and increased coughing. Some of these side effects diminish over time. With any surgery, there is a risk of infection.