Monday, April 24, 2006

So, does your VNS work?

I have gotten a few questions recently asking about my VNS: Does it work?

I think that most people simply want a Yes or No answer as to whether it completely stopped you from having seizures. Unfortunately it is not that simple. The VNS will not cure you of epilepsy, but it can help control seizures or reduce the intensity and after-effects. The level of effectiveness varies between persons.

The studies by Cyberoics indicate that most people take anywhere from 3 months to a year before they get meaningful results from the device. In addition, many people report increasing effectiveness the longer they have the VNS.

Given all that, reprhasing the question would be the best way to get a meaningful answer. Instead of "Does it work?" ask, "What type of results are you getting from your VNS so far?"

Answer:
So far, the VNS seems to be reducing the intensity and severity of my seizures. I have had mine a little over three months now and am already seeing some impact on my seizures. I have high hopes that the device will bring additional improvement.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

WOW! That is absolutely fantastic that the VNS seems to be helping and that it may reduce the impact that seizures have on her life. I wish DD the best with her singing!
Thanks so much for posting. It is important for people to hear about postive experinces from the VNS.