Aging Well: News & Insights for Seniors and Caregivers
- Handheld magnet sweeps over the device to deliver extra stimulation; removing it resumes the programmed cycle, can abort some seizures in epilepsy.
- Regular follow up visits monitor device position, stimulation counts, programming adjustments, and remaining battery power.
- Check with your provider before imaging; MRI and other scans may interfere with the device.
- The device delivers programmed intermittent stimulation at set frequencies and intervals, and programming can be adjusted based on symptoms.
- Initial side effects include hoarseness, mild cough, throat tickling, shortness of breath, nausea, and sleep changes; these are usually temporary.
After the surgery, you may stay overnight or go home on the same day. You will have two wound dressings, on your chest and on the left side of your neck.
You may have pain for a few days and feel a slight bump where the device was placed. Your provider may prescribe pain medicines. If you have been given antibiotics, take them as instructed.
Do not take baths, swim, or use a hot tub until your provider approves. You may be allowed to have sponge baths with your incision covered.
Avoid wearing tight clothes that could rub on your incision. Change your dressing as advised. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before and after changing your dressings.
Check your incision for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, increased pain, warmness, or pus.
Your stitches will be absorbed on their own.
Ask your surgeon if you need to avoid driving or using any machinery.
You will have a follow-up visit to program the device in 2 to 4 weeks. The device is set to deliver stimulation at a certain frequency for a specific time at regular intervals. The device is usually set at low levels at first to see how your symptoms respond.
You will be given a handheld magnet to use at home:
- Sweeping the magnet over the device delivers extra stimulation.
- Removing the magnet makes the device resume the programmed stimulation cycle.
- This allows you to control the device as needed.
For example, if you have epilepsy, and a seizure is about to happen, you can swipe the magnet to send an extra burst of stimulation.
You will need regular checkups so your device can be monitored. Your provider will check:
- That the device is in the correct position and working properly
- The number of stimulations delivered
- If the programming needs to be adjusted
- How much power is left in the batteries
Check with your provider before having any imaging, such as an MRI, as it may interfere with the device.
Be sure to go to all of your follow-up visits as long as you have the device.
Side effects can occur due to nerve stimulation and are temporary. When you first start using VNS, you may notice:
- Hoarseness or a change in your voice
- Mild coughing
- A tickling sensation in your throat
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in your neck or throat
- Nausea, vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Tingling or prickling sensation in the skin
- Headaches
- Difficulty sleeping or worsening of sleep apnea
These side effects usually improve with time.
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