SCRATCH-HTN Study: Evaluating Autonomic Neuromodulation Using Trans-cutaneous Vagal Stimulation in Hypertensive Patients

(Trans-cutaneous Autonomic Neurostimulation) tAN treatment will be administered using AffeX-CT device (a device based on a totally TENS unit). AffeX device comprises of a battery-operated control unit, two electrode pairs arranged on ear clips and connected to the control unit with electrical leads. The AffeX device generates an electrical signal that is used to stimulate the nerves that naturally control the output from the sympathetic nervous system.

Sham Totally TENS device. The device is identical to the active device used in the study, but its only purpose is to act as a placebo. The ear-clip electrodes have been modified so that the electric current is not transmitted to the participant.