A new study from the journal Epilepsy & Behaviour suggests that vagul nerve stimulation ( VNS) is effective and safe for children in the long term.

Study authors Dilek Yalnizoglu and colleagues investigated 58 children in Turkey with hard to treat epilepsy who had VNS put in between 1997 and 2018. The average follow up was around six years, although it ranged from three months to 20 years.

The researchers found that just under half of the children had their seizures reduced by at least half, with three children becoming seizure free. The effectiveness of the VNS wasn’t affected by the cause of the epilepsy, how long they had had epilepsy or what age they had the VNS put in. However, it worked better in the children who had focal seizures. more than half of the children also had a better quality of life.

The most common side-effects were voice change and a pins and needles sensation.

For some of us, epilepsy can be an isolating condition which can make us feel lonely and misunderstood. But there are actually many people in the UK and around the world with the condition. One of Epilepsy Action’s roles is bringing people together to share their knowledge and experiences and talk to other going through similar situations.

We know that many of you take comfort from meeting others affected by epilepsy through our branches and coffee and chat groups. As we aren’t currently able to offer that support, our virtual groups are a great way of connecting with others.

You can find more information on all our support services at epilepsy.org.uk/virtualgroups you can also get more details by calling us on 01132108800.
Source Epilepsy Action