Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation as an Adjunct Treatment for Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Autonomic Dysfunction

Background:

• Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) is a cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (CVAD) affecting 1-2% of the population, primarily young women.
• IST is defined by resting heart rate >100 bpm and mean 24-h heart rate >90 bpm, causing symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, and syncope.

Observation:

• A 30-year-old woman presented with tachycardia, dizziness, diaphoresis, and syncope, diagnosed as IST via 24-h Holter monitoring.
• Standard beta-blocker therapy provided minimal symptom relief.

Findings:

• The patient received non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation (n-VNS) therapy twice daily for 2 months.
• n-VNS treatment resulted in near-complete relief of tachycardia and associated debilitating symptoms.

Implications:

• This is the first reported case of n-VNS effectively treating IST, suggesting a novel therapeutic approach.
• Further clinical studies are warranted to investigate the efficacy and benefits of n-VNS for IST patients.