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VNS - What do I watch out for??

Thu, 08/03/2006 - 11:42
My little boy (8 years old) will be having a VNS put in on Aug.22. I have been looking for information to tell me more about how it will affect him. He doesn't understand how to communicate hurt or pain, I have to watch him closly to figure out how he is feeling. Are there any side effects with the VNS that would cause him pain or harm if I don't catch them right away? Also, is there anything I should keep away from him? Microwaves? Metal detectors? other magnets? Thanks. CLC

Comments

Re: VNS - What do I watch out for??

Submitted by justbearlie on Thu, 2006-08-03 - 13:33
I have had my VNS for almost a year now. It is the best thing(other then my current neuro)thet has happened to me since being diagnosed with epilepsy(diagnosed 28yrs.ago). I have not experienced ANY pain from mine at all. The thing thet I have had the most difficulty getting used to is my voice changing. When the stimulator goes off it causes your voice to change. That is the thing thet I have had to get used too. As far as things to watch out for...there are some. The following information is straight from the VNS Patient Manuel, I hope it helps. You will get a copy of this manuel when your son recieves his implant. "Properly operating microwave ovens and other small electirical appliances, such as toasters, hair dryers, and electric shavers SHOULD NOT cause a problem. Cell Phones DO NOT cause a problem. Metal Detectors SHOULD not cause a problem, but can. Because of this reason it is suggested to move through them at a "steady" pace and as quickly as possible. DO Not to stay in the area of the equipement, to be at least 16 inches away from the equipment. Any sort of a electical or electromechanical device with a strong static pulsing magnetic field can cause the device to start suddenly. Such devices may include strong magnets,hair clippers, vibrators, antitheft tag deactivators, and loud speakers. Keep this type of equipment at least 8 inches away from your chest. If you are in a strong electromagnetic field, move away from the source so thet the device may return to regular operation." As I said this is straight from the Patients Manuel. I hope that this information has answered some of your questions. However if you should have anyother questions please do not hesitate to email me/get in touch with me because I would be more then happy to answer any questions you may have. Good luck and best wishes to you and your son! Marianne

Re: Re: VNS - What do I watch out for??

Submitted by CLC on Thu, 2006-08-03 - 17:57
thank you so much for your reply. I am glad to hear you haven't had any problems with yours. I just worry about him because he can't communicate with me if something is wrong. Thanks again. CLC.

Re: Re: Re: VNS - What do I watch out for??

Submitted by txrhb1 on Sat, 2006-08-05 - 02:11
Hi, I've had my VNS for 10 months now, and haven't had any problems. As stated above, the worst part to get used to is the change in voice. When the magnet needs to be used, be aware that it puts off a stronger voltage usually, and usually for a bit longer. Example: normal activation is every 5 minutes for 30 seconds at 1.0, but when magnet is used, activation is immediate for 60 seconds at 1.25. Make sure you get the settings from the doctor each time they increase it so you will know. I sometimes find that using the magnet is a bit more uncomfortable because it is higher voltage and longer in length. It definitely has not caused me any pain though. Best of luck to you and your son ! ((( hugs ))), Barbie *************************************** "We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can fly only by embracing each other." -lucian de crescenzo

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