Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Everything You Need to Know

The vagus nerve, the longest nerve of the autonomic nervous system, regulates vital bodily functions ranging from heart rate and digestion to respiratory rate. In addition to regulating internal organ functions, this nerve participates in vasomotor activity and certain reflex actions. Problems with the vagus nerve induce a wide range of symptoms, including gastrointestinal (GI) issues and changes in heart rate. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an approach that can improve a person’s health and well-being or overall quality of life. Read on to learn more about VNS, its uses, purpose, and more.

What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?

Vagus nerve stimulation is the process that involves stimulating the vagus nerve with electrical impulses or in other ways. More precisely, VNS sends mild pulses of electrical energy to the brain via the vagus nerve. The device for VNS, in this case, works in a similar manner as a pacemaker.

Although vagus nerve stimulation has gained momentum recently, it’s not a modern-day invention. In fact, the first human implant of the vagal stimulating device into a human was performed in 1988. Back in 1997, the FDA approved the use of this treatment as an adjunct therapy to treat medically refractory epilepsy.

There are several approaches to vagus nerve stimulation:

Via surgical implant
Non-invasive, wearable devices
Natural methods such as cold exposure, deep breathing

Uses of Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Vagus nerve stimulation has several uses, including the following:

Treatment of epilepsy: vagus nerve stimulation acts as an adjunct therapy for focal or partial seizures in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. A paper from Neurosurgery Clinics of North America reported that VNS has been consistently effective in epilepsy management. In the treatment of epilepsy, VNS works by improving blood flow to the critical areas of the brain and alters the chaotic electrical pattern that appears during seizures. Moreover, vagus nerve stimulation increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that are capable of controlling the development of seizures.
Managing depression: VNS is suitable for adults with long-term or recurrent depression that is resistant to medications. In the treatment of depression, vagus nerve stimulation works by improving the levels of neurotransmitters that regulate mood. A review from the Journal of Neurological Sciences found that VNS could act as an antidepressant and help manage depression, improve quality of life, and be beneficial for reducing suicidality in people with depression and bipolar disorder.
Recovery from stroke: a combination of VNS and rehabilitation aid in recovering function in hands and arms following an ischemic stroke. It works by stimulating the motor cortex in the brain, which controls the ability to move arms and hands. Evidence confirms the beneficial effect of VNS on stroke recovery, but more research on this subject is necessary

The spectrum of VNS uses extended to other fields of medicine such as neurogenesis, treatment of obesity, and improving cognitive functioning.

Are Vagus Nerve Stimulation Wearables Effective?

For quite some time, the primary method of VNS was a surgical procedure to implant the device. Today, non-invasive methods are also available. People from all walks of life have access to wearable VNS devices such as Pulsetto. While research on these devices is necessary, current evidence confirms their benefits.

For example, one review confirmed that non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation can effectively manage stress-related conditions through several mechanisms of action. These include the effects on autonomic tone, cardiovascular function, inflammatory responses, and central brain areas involved in the modulation of emotion.

In a paper from the journal Focus, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation is described as effective at managing depression. However, further research is necessary to elucidate its effectiveness, and mechanism of action, and confirm the beneficial effects.

How Wearable Vagus Nerve Stimulation Devices Work?

Wearable vagus nerve stimulation has a simple mechanism of action. For instance, one of the most well-known VNS devices, Pulsetto, works by stimulating the vagus nerve to activate the relaxation response in the body and thereby positively influence a person’s mental health.

Wearable devices aren’t a quick fix and short-term tool, they are a long-term solution to improve mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and help manage depression. Only a couple of minutes per session can reduce stress and help a person feel a lot better and healthier. For example, Pulsetto just needs four minutes to induce calmness, and relaxation, and reduce stress and anxiety.

Thanks to the advancements in science and technology, people can avoid invasive procedures to experience the benefits of vagus nerve stimulation. They can purchase the device and work on reducing their stress, anxiety, and depression in the comfort of their home or wherever they are. A calmer mind leads to better sleep too, which is yet another reason wearable VNS is a beneficial solution.

Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation Safe?

Non-invasive methods of vagus nerve stimulation are safe. Devices such as Pulsetto don’t cause harm or induce adverse reactions.

Invasive VNS comes with certain risks, like any other surgical procedure. These include infection, pain, and inflammation at the incision sites, and damage to the vagus nerve or the nearby tissues.

Side effects of the procedure to implant a device for VNS include:

Hoarseness
Coughing
Headache
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty speaking
Shortness of breath
Neck or throat pain

How Does It Feel Like to Wear a VNS Device?

Wearable vagus nerve stimulation devices produce pleasant feelings. You may notice a light vibration or tingling sensation in the neck area. These devices don’t produce discomfort and people usually find them comfortable to wear. The vagus nerve stimulation session produces instant calm and relaxation, mind clarity, and better mood.

Bottom Line

Vagus nerve stimulation is an excellent way to combat various health problems, including depression, stress, and anxiety. Wearable devices make it easy to stimulate this important nerve in a non-invasive manner. While you can benefit from VNS, make sure to be careful when choosing the device to wear. Not every device is beneficial. Always go for devices with regulatory approvals. The best option on the market is Pulsetto, which promotes relaxation and emotional balance, but also comes with an app to further support your mental health.