VNS side effects

Hi Camryn, I had a VNS implanted appx 5 years ago and I have to admit, that at first, I thought it was kind of rough to get through. I remember going in to see my neurologist to have the level increased 2 times, which is typical, and each time it caused me to cough and lightly choke, which is also typical. But now, the only time I really notice it, is when I am talking to someone, or walking and talking to someone and it is "in motion" because I run out of breath and in a sense, somewhat, lose my voice. But now, if I'm sitting here watching tv, or cleaning, cooking, or doing anything else, I don't even notice it anymore. Don't give up, it's worth it. The bracelet has saved me from many seizures. And just a hint, if you were given an extra, use that extra and place it in your shower, as they are waterproof. I don't know about you, but I have experienced many seizures in the shower, and this has saved me from so many. Good luck! It doesn't take long.

I received mine from a mortar round while in the army. My sister who is a Dr. is all about the strange and unusual i.e. CBD VNS acupuncture anything to torture her younger brother. I do a lot of running marathons etc. from the sounds of it that won't be happening. All I ever hear is a lot of pain associated with it. 

Hi again, You received yours from a mortar? I'm sorry about your sister. Some people just don't understand our world.But I have such a mild level of pain from my VNS that it's hardly even noticeable. And remember that it lasts only 20-30 seconds. Just give it some time to get use to, give it a chance. Also remember, that you can have it removed, if you decide to.  Just one question, where are you getting all of the pain at? The throat doesn't bother me anymore, other than being a little out of breath, if I'm talking. For me, it's a pinch in my ear from the wire each time it goes off, but it's so minor that's it's doable. And don't give up running marathons yet. You "may" be able to run them still. I have no problems doing my things, as long as I'm not talking "while" doing those things. You just can't do both "at the same time".I was having around 7 seizures a week, sometimes 3 per day, and it's brought me down to around 2-3 seizures a month, 5 a month, depending on the stress.It's still worth it, it just takes time to get use to.Keep me up on how you're doing.