Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Dizziness

This trial explores whether stimulating the vagus nerve, a key nerve connecting the brain to the body, can reduce dizziness. It targets individuals who have experienced ongoing dizziness for at least three months with daily flare-ups. Participants will use either an active device for auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation or a sham (inactive) device during daily sessions to determine if the treatment is effective. This trial may suit individuals diagnosed with Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) who maintain stable medication and therapy routines. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new treatment options.

The trial requires that you have been on stable medications or therapy for at least 4 weeks before starting. It doesn't specify if you need to stop taking them during the trial.

Research has shown that auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (aTVNS) is generally safe. Studies have found that while minor side effects like skin irritation can occur, serious problems are rare and not directly linked to the treatment. One review reported 30 serious issues, but none were confirmed to be caused by aTVNS itself. Most people tolerate the treatment well, making it a promising option for treating dizziness and other conditions.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation for dizziness because it offers a non-invasive approach to treatment, unlike standard medications that often have systemic side effects. This method involves stimulating the vagus nerve through the skin of the ear, which could potentially regulate balance and reduce dizziness symptoms more directly and safely. Additionally, the sham comparator group allows researchers to clearly assess the treatment's effectiveness, which could lead to new, more targeted therapies for people suffering from dizziness.

Research has shown that stimulating the vagus nerve through the ear (aTVNS) can help reduce dizziness and improve balance. In this trial, participants in the vagus nerve stimulation group will receive active auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (aTVNS) for 8 weeks. One study found that adding aTVNS to regular treatment helped with dizziness, balance, tiredness, and anxiety. Another study showed that aTVNS improved the quality of life for people with ongoing dizziness. These findings suggest that aTVNS could be a promising option for easing dizziness symptoms.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹