Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Heartburn | Do HRV Exercises & Non-Invasive Treatment Work?

Key Takeaways

• Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can help manage heartburn by controlling stomach acid production.
• Wearable, non-invasive VNS devices that stimulate the vagus nerve through the skin show promise in providing relief.
• Simple vagus nerve exercises, such as deep breathing, can be performed at home to potentially alleviate heartburn symptoms.
• Consistent use of VNS and related exercises can lead to improvements in digestive health over time.

Can a Damaged or Overactive Vagus Nerve Cause Heartburn?

You’re enjoying your favorite meal when suddenly, a burning sensation starts in your chest. Heartburn strikes again. 

But what if I told you that the vagus nerve, which controls your stomach’s movement and function, might be causing your discomfort? When this nerve isn’t working properly, it can lead to digestive issues like heartburn.

The vagus nerve extends from the brainstem through the neck and thorax down to the abdomen.

The vagus nerve controls the production of stomach acid. If it's damaged or overactive, it can cause your stomach to produce too much acid, which can then move up into your esophagus and create that burning sensation.

Do Vagus Nerve Exercises & Non-Invasive Treatment Solve Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by acid reflux. 

You might be wondering if there’s a way to manage the vagus nerve without surgery or daily medication. Fortunately, there are non-invasive VNS treatments and exercises you can try at home.

Traditional VNS required surgery, but now there are non-invasive options like wearable devices and simple exercises that can boost vagal tone. These methods are less risky than surgical options.

Here are a few exercises to stimulate your vagus nerve:

• Deep Breathing: Slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system and stimulate the vagus nerve.
• Gargling: Vigorous gargling with water after brushing your teeth can have a VNS effect.
• Singing or Chanting: These activities engage the muscles in the back of your throat, which also stimulates the vagus nerve.

Taking slow, deep breaths has the potential to soothe the nervous system and may activate the vagus nerve.

How Does Vagus Nerve Stimulation Help with Heartburn?

VNS can help with heartburn by addressing how the vagus nerve controls stomach acid and digestion.

The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in managing the release of stomach acid and the movement of your digestive tract. When this nerve is not functioning optimally, it can lead to issues like excessive acid production or poor digestion, contributing to heartburn.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort.

By using VNS, you can help regulate and balance the nerve’s activity, which in turn can improve how your digestive system operates. VNS enhances the communication between your brain and stomach, ensuring that the digestive system functions more smoothly. This improved regulation can reduce the likelihood of acid spilling into the esophagus, which is a common cause of heartburn.

Pulsetto: Vagus Nerve Stimulator for Heartburn

Pulsetto’s proprietary vagus nerve stimulator device. 

Those who want to experience VNS on demand can now do so with the use of non-invasive VNS devices. One of the brands gaining popularity for its effective stimulation of the vagus nerve is Pulsetto. This innovative device targets the vagus nerve through the neck, delivering gentle electrical pulses that help regulate digestive functions. Designed as a user-friendly neck band, Pulsetto allows you to "set and forget" the device, making it convenient for use anywhere.

If you’re looking for a practical way to perform VNS, give Pulsetto a try

Click this link to find out how you can get $200 off on your Pulsetto purchase. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is VNS Safe for Everyone?
VNS is generally considered safe, but it's not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant should consult their healthcare provider before trying VNS.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from VNS?
Results from VNS can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements in their symptoms relatively quickly, while others may need to use the device consistently over a longer period to experience significant benefits.

Can VNS Treat Other Digestive Issues Besides Heartburn?
Interestingly, VNS has been explored for a variety of digestive issues beyond heartburn, including functional dyspepsia and gastroparesis. While more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy for these conditions, VNS holds promise as a potential treatment for various gastrointestinal complaints.

Are There Any Side Effects to Vagus Nerve Exercises?
Like any form of treatment or exercise, vagus nerve exercises come with their own set of considerations. While side effects are generally minimal, some individuals may experience mild discomfort such as coughing or gagging when performing exercises like gargling or singing. It’s also possible to feel a bit lightheaded during deep breathing exercises if not performed correctly. 

To minimize risks, start slowly and increase the intensity of the exercises gradually.