aVNT in POTS - Pilot

Autonomic nervous system imbalance causes postural tachycardia and related cardiac symptoms in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). The impact of POTS is more far-reaching than postural tachycardia. Several systemic, autonomic symptoms along with neuro-cognitive dysfunction leading to poor quality of life contribute to significant disability in POTS. A combination of abnormal autonomic tone, abnormal cerebral blood flow regulation, and systemic inflammation may contribute to POTS symptoms.

Auricular Vagal Neuromodulation Therapy (aVNT) has the potential for multisystem holistic benefit for patients with POTS: Autonomic neuromodulation by aVNT might address multiple aspects of POTS pathophysiology and improve POTS symptoms. It can reduce postural tachycardia by increasing the parasympathetic (PNS) and decreasing sympathetic (SNS) tone. In patients undergoing vagus nerve stimulation for various indications, an increase in PNS tone has been associated with improved middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) at rest and during cognitive stress. aVNT has been associated with improved cerebral blood flow and reduced infarct size in an experimental model of ischemic stroke, suggesting similar improvements in cerebral autoregulation in POTS. Vagus nerve stimulation has also been linked to improved cognitive function. The anti-inflammatory effect and improved endothelial function might improve cerebral blood flow regulation and cognitive function. The anti-inflammatory effects of aVNT may improve postural hemodynamics, reduce postural tachycardia, relieve other POTS symptoms, and improve quality of life (QoL). POTS is a complex multisystem disorder with debilitating symptoms that currently lack effective treatments. aVNT has the potential to recalibrate autonomic tone dysregulation, enhance MCAv, improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and ultimately improve symptoms and quality of life in POTS patients.