What To Expect From Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Posted on: 16 January 2023
The human brain is a very complex organ. It can be difficult to know why you might be experiencing the symptoms that you're currently experiencing. Certain areas of the brain can experience a lower level of activity. However, transcranial magnetic stimulation may be able to increase the activity of the brain and alleviate the symptoms of depression.
The TMS Procedure
TMS therapy is a very comfortable experience. You will sit in a comfortable chair with headphones on. These will protect your ears because the TMS device creates a clicking noise. You will not have to undergo general anesthesia and the procedure is not painful.
The technician will determine where to place the magnetic coil. However, because this treatment uses magnets, you will need to remove any clothing that uses magnets before going forward with the procedure. Even a credit card can interfere with your TMS therapy treatment.
The Placement of the Coil
The coil will be placed on the front of your head. The technician will perform measurements to make sure that the coil is placed in the right location. Then, the physician will begin the treatment. As the magnetic impulses are released, you will hear a clicking sound. This is an outpatient procedure and you will be able to drive home afterward.
What to Expect
The procedure needs to be carried out several days a week to be effective. The length of the procedure will be based on how well you respond to the treatment and how severe the condition is.
Potential Side Effects
You might experience some mild symptoms resulting from your TMS therapy. For example, you might experience headaches, lightheadedness, and discomfort. However, these symptoms diminish over time. It's also important to consult with your therapist and your doctor about whether you are a good candidate for this procedure and whether it might impact you in a unique way.
Why TMS Might Be More Effective
This method is used when other therapy methods have been found to be ineffective. For example, if you have not been responding to talk therapy, you might undergo a TMS therapy session instead. It's also a procedure considered much less invasive than other methods involving surgery.
You will not experience immediate results from TMS. This treatment causes gradual changes in the brain over time. However, you will eventually begin to experience the symptoms of your depression becoming less severe over time.
For more information about TMS therapy, contact a doctor.
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