Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is a technology that has been used for several years to treat patients with treatment-resistant depression. Stimulating the vagus nerve has shown activation in regions in the brain known to play a role in affecting mood states, such as the anterior cingulate cortex and pre-frontal cortex. However, VNS requires an implant and an expensive surgical operation. Can noninvasively stimulating the vagus nerve around the ear area have the same effects on the brain as it's invasive counterpart?
One of the side effects of increased stress and anxiety levels is increased heart rate. Stimulating the vagus nerve is known to affect elevated heart rate. How does stimulating a branch of the vagus nerve around the ear affect heart rate? Can it help reduce elevated heart rate or keep heart rate from spiking out of control during an anxiety episode? This research review highlights the findings of a group that gives an answer to those questions.
Neurostimulation is a method of applying energy to the central or peripheral nervous system for the purpose of causing a neurophysiological response intended to treat or improve symptoms for various medical conditions.
Mental health has been the hottest topic in the world over the last two years. 9 out of 10 Americans believe the country is experiencing a “mental health crisis.” Demand for mental health therapy has never been higher and continues to grow.
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