the post from Dx that I found on a search

The vagus nerve is the longest of the nerves. Its name is derived from Latin meaning "wandering". Same as "Vagrant," and "Vagabond." This "Vagabond originates in the Cranium but wanders from the brain stem Through organs in the neck, thorax and abdomen, All the way to the first third of the colon. It has motor functions in the larynx (voice box), diaphragm, Stomach, and heart, and sensory functions in the ears and tongue. It has both motor and sensory functions in the pharynx (sinuses) And esophagus. Stimulation of the vagus nerve is thought to affect Some of its connections to areas in the brain that are prone to seizure activity. It is responsible for some phenomenal sensory and motor Responses even without WLS. Emotions running high? Feel that lump at the back of your throat that you didn't put there? That's the Vagus Nerve. Can't tickle yourself, except the roof of your mouth? (try it) Because when you try to tickle your armpit- The same nerves that perceive the tickle Also "know that it's coming," and thus the "surprise" aspect That allows "tickling" to occur have been preempted. Roof of the mouth? Different selective dumping of info prior to reaching the brain. That's the Vagus nerve "sharing" some info With sensory and motor controls While not telling others. The best way to describe how it works- Rather than sending signals out from brain, Or bringing sensory info back to the brain, It does both, as do many nerves, And it allows "pieces parts" or "stations" along the way To communicate with each other without Directly routing through the brain. It controls much of the movement of the mouth and Let's the esophagus "synch up" with back of tongue motions In order to make swallowing possible. Since the Vagus nerve also sends signals to and for Those "unconscious" or reflex reactions- Such as swallowing when not thinking about it consciously. Like swallowing saliva while sleeping so you don't drown in spit. Now, Signals from the Stomach are "distorted somewhat" By the Gastric Bypass. The signals from the pouch often trigger the Vagus nerve To "fire" unique reflex responses. The Vagus nerve transmits the signal to the brain when we are full. It seems to "drop off" some info to other stations on the way to the brain. Many Post-ops claim to have their nose start running When they take "that last bite" just before feeling too full. Some experience sneezing or hiccups if they eat a bite too much. Both are actions inextricably bound to Vagus nerve signals. I get a runny nose with one bite too much food for my pouch, And hiccups from eating too fast. A lot of Post-ops have similar odd signals associated With the connections that the Vagus nerve Makes along it's wandering path. For more Vagus Nerve Trivia, just google -Vagus nerve, Vagal Response, etc... Your nose could just be dripping from the cold, But don't rule out signals Being fired from your pouch.

Hey Betsey It was so nice meeting you in person at this month's meeting. This really explains a lot about the sinus issues, and actually makes sense! I was a little disappointed in this month's meeting, not many people, and waaayyy more quiet than I am used to. Kinda like this message board lately, too quiet. Anyway, I think Dr.Roye would be interested in this article, do you know the source? Pam

Pam, It was wonderuf to meet you too. I do agree that there were too few people and it was quiet. Maybe it will be better next month. The information about the vagus nerve is from a post by Dx who is a regular and a veteran on the main and men's boards. His posts are always informative and often very funny. I printed the whole post out and sent it to Dr. Roye because I too thought he might be interested. Hope to see you again. Let's make it to the next meeting. Betz

Hey again. I sent you an OT post on the 11th off the board, was wondering if you got it? Pam

Hi Betz, This is very interesting. Who knew?? It was great to meet in person. I hope to see you all next month. Take care, Paula