Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

[Tuesando]

My partner got epilepsy after suffering from encephalitis 2 years ago. He is on Lacosamide and Topiramate but still have about 3-4 long partial focal seizures a month. VNS has been suggested to us by our neurologist. Has anybody got any pos/neg experience with that? Has it decreased seizures? Has it led to a decrease in medication? Has it had a positive effect on mood?

[Paula-38]

I have never had a ny surgery I didn't need it but Phenytoin and Clonazepam have done the trick for me.

[kitnkaboodle]

I don’t know about this specific epilepsy treatment, but I do know we all (especially E patients) could benefit from increased vagal tone and parasympathetic activity. Supportive activities include deep breathing exercises, gentle exposure to cold temperatures, appropriate physical activity, natural light exposure, balanced diet, full hydration, manual therapies, etc.

Obviously, none of this replaces anti-seizure medication, but they are supportive of increased vagal tone, which is one of the goals of VNS. I could see why VNS would be suggested for treatment-resistant epilepsy.