Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Post COVID Fatigue

Outcomes of Treatment With Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Post-COVID Syndrome: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of vagal nerve stimulation on patients with post COVID syndrome who have fatigue and headache.

Patients, after consenting, will perform questionnaires, have a blood samples taken, and undergo PET/CT scans of the brain. Patients will then be randomized to either receive vagal nerve stimulation, or continue standard clinical care. For those randomized to receive treatment, they will be given a device and asked to follow a specific regimen daily for 12 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Presence of fatigue and post exertional malaise.
• Presence of headache
• Clinical diagnosis of post COVID syndrome.
• They have consented to participate in the study
• They have the ability to participate in all aspects of the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant.
• Prior adverse reaction to 14FDG.
• Active implantable medical device e.g. pacemaker, hearing aid implant
• Metallic device e.g. stent, orthopedic hardware in neck
• Using another electronic device at the same time e.g. TENS, mobile phone.
• Any other condition deemed exclusionary by the study principal investigator