Clinical improvement of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients with warm ear stimulation, initial exploratory study on the anterior branch of the vagal nerve (Jacobson's nerve)

Introduction: Jacobson's nerve, also known as the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, is situated on the medial part of the earlobe. Research has demonstrated that electrical stimulation of this nerve can influence various aspects of gastrointestinal motility and function. This study investigated how warm stimulation affects Jacobson's nerves as an adjuvant therapy in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: The investigation was carried out using a single-blind design, wherein the participants were unaware of their assigned group and the nature of the ear-warming therapy they were getting, whether genuine or placebo. The present study involved a sample of 15 individuals who were diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux and had undergone medical treatment. The participants were allocated into three distinct groups for the study. Group 1 was administered anti-gastritis medication and instructed to utilize ear warmers. Group 2 was given a placebo medication and required a device resembling an ear warmer. Lastly, Group 3 was solely administered anti-gastritis medication without additional ear warmers instructions. Results: This study showed a significant difference between the three groups after the intervention (p = 0.03). Postintervention comparison between groups 1 and 3 revealed a significant difference [9 (3-11) vs 15 (14-16), p = 0.008]. Conclusions: Warm stimulation can serve as a viable and secure supplementary therapeutic approach for individuals diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).