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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone ever had a VNS put in and ever since then felt like they had drainage going down their throat and if so what did you do about it

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Weiner, AR
January 15
 · 
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

January 15
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

When I first had mine implanted, I experienced that feeling of something in my throat...a 'tickling' feeling. Whenever it would go off, my voice would become horse, which was an easy way to know that it was activated. The next time that it is interrogated, your neurologist can adjust it's settings to a more manageable level.

January 18
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I’ve had my VNS in for so long I don’t feel it anymore I’ve had the battery replaced 3 times but I still fill like I have drainage going down my throat

January 15
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
When I got the VNS it would tickle my throat like crazy to the point I would cough and it would also mess up my speech while it was running. After awhile I would get used to it and it wouldn’t bother me as much.

January 15
MyEpilepsyTeam

Has having a VNS caused throat drainage, and what can be done about it?

Throat discomfort is actually a known side effect of VNS devices. Some people experience issues like:

- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Coughing
- Throat discomfort

The drainage sensation you're feeling down your throat could be related to these side Show Full Answer

Has having a VNS caused throat drainage, and what can be done about it?

Throat discomfort is actually a known side effect of VNS devices. Some people experience issues like:

- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Coughing
- Throat discomfort

The drainage sensation you're feeling down your throat could be related to these side effects. The electrical stimulation from the VNS can affect the vagus nerve in ways that impact your throat and voice.

If you're experiencing this, it's important to talk with your neurologist or the doctor who manages your VNS. They may be able to adjust the device settings to reduce these symptoms. Sometimes lowering the stimulation intensity or changing the timing of pulses can help minimize throat-related side effects while still providing seizure control.

Don't try to manage this on your own - your medical team needs to know about any uncomfortable side effects you're experiencing so they can help find the right balance for you.

January 15

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