Ear zap may tame brain bleed inflammation
NCT ID NCT04557618
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a non-invasive device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear can reduce inflammation and improve recovery in people who have had a spontaneous brain bleed (subarachnoid hemorrhage). Fifty participants will receive either real or sham stimulation. Researchers will measure inflammatory markers in blood and spinal fluid, and check for complications like vasospasm or the need for a shunt.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Auricular vagus nerve stimulation device
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to reduce brain inflammation and prevent complications after a brain bleed.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase study with only 50 participants. The device may not lower inflammation or improve outcomes, and some people may not tolerate the stimulation.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Washington University School of Medicine
RECRUITINGSt Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••