Seizures can disrupt daily life and become difficult to manage when medication alone doesn’t provide enough relief. At Freedom Spine & Pain Center, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Rajesh K. Sharma, Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management by the American Board of Anesthesiology, and Dr. Vrunda H. Pandya, a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist trained at New York University with a fellowship in Regional Anesthesia from NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Hospital for Special Surgery.
Their extensive training enables them to offer advanced treatment options, including vagus nerve stimulation —a small, implanted device that reduces seizure frequency and severity, thereby improving overall quality of life.
What Is the Vagus Nerve and What is its Role in Seizures?
The vagus nerve is one of the body’s main communication pathways, connecting the brain to key organs such as the heart and digestive system. It also helps regulate electrical activity in the brain. When this communication is disrupted, it can trigger seizures. By sending gentle electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, doctors can help stabilize this activity and reduce the likelihood of seizures.
How Vagus Nerve Stimulation Works
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy involves implanting a small, battery-powered device beneath the skin in the chest. Thin wires connect the device to the vagus nerve in the neck. The stimulator sends mild electrical pulses at regular intervals to help control irregular brain activity that can lead to seizures.
VNS therapy is:
- Minimally invasive, requiring a short outpatient procedure
- FDA-approved for epilepsy and certain seizure disorders
- Adjustable, allowing specialists to fine-tune stimulation levels for each patient’s needs
The therapy does not replace medication but often works alongside it to provide better seizure control.
The Benefits of Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Patients receiving VNS therapy may experience:
- Fewer and shorter seizures over time
- Quicker recovery following a seizure episode
- Improved alertness and overall quality of life
Some patients also report additional benefits, such as better mood and sleep quality, due to the vagus nerve’s connection to areas of the brain that influence emotion and relaxation.
Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation Right for You?
Vagus Nerve Stimulation can be an effective option for patients whose seizures remain difficult to control with medication alone. A consultation with a qualified spine and pain specialist can help determine whether this therapy is appropriate based on medical history, seizure type, and individual health goals.
Relief from Seizures in San Antonio, Boerne & Kerrville, TX
If seizures are making daily life difficult, help is closer than you think. Freedom Spine & Pain Center provides advanced treatment options, including Vagus Nerve Stimulation therapy, to help patients regain stability and confidence. Call 210-920-8945 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a calmer, more controlled life.