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70 year old male with first horrible Ménière’s Disease attack in mid February necessitating a trip to the ER and ENT. I then had bad attacks every 2 to 3 weeks with continued aural stuffiness, fatigue, and headache. Out of a feeling of helplessness, I searched the Internet for ANY kind of possible relief. I found clinical trials in China, (2023) in which interesting results were published regarding the use of betahistine and taVNS (transcutaneous auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation). In April, I began betahistine 16 mg two times a day and progressed to three times a day. On June 1, I obtained a TAVNS device and begin with 15 minutes and increased to 30 minute sessions two times a day. Within two weeks I had almost become a normal human being! It was VERY obvious to me and my wife, that my symptoms had decreased approximately 75%. I know that I could have a bad attack tomorrow, but as of now, my last attack was over two months ago. I still have symptoms every day, but they are minor and manageable. I am most thankful that the attack episodes now appear to be rare. This combination treatment may not work for everyone, but since have not seen it discussed anywhere, I felt like I had to share my experience.

 

I use Vagustim $300-$350? I think the lower price is why I picked it to see if I had any results at all without spending a ton of money. Now, with the results that I’ve had, it’s worth every penny. It’s not hard but it takes a little getting used to positioning the ear electrodes. Also, I think it’s important to pair the device with the betahistine (as in the trials). It takes time and I NEVER miss a dose or a VNS session. It may not work the same for everyone but if you get a Vagustim, I will share with you the basic settings that I use that have worked for me.

 

The taVNS AND Betahistine are just arrows in my quiver. My 1st attack was mid-February and now, overall, in the last 2 months my symptoms have decreased in intensity and some days I actually feel “normal “. On other days the symptoms are mild or moderate but manageable. I must admit that in the beginning I was somewhat skeptical of VNS, but no longer. It is not a cure but I definitely notice that the taVNS has an immediate calming and positive effect on my symptoms. I actually look forward to my 30 minute sessions two times a day. While it is fantastic to help with my symptoms, my greatest joy is what APPEARS to be the delay or hopefully the elimination of the dreaded next “attack”.
I am now adding another arrow to my quiver. I am starting the “John of Ohio regimen” (see it on the forum). It seems like a no-brainer to have as many arrows as possible!