TMS is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic waves to stimulate specific areas of the brain.
This article discusses TMSthe procedure, benefits of treatment, and potential side effects.
You’ll be seated in a comfortable position and will remain awake during the procedure.
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Your provider will also determine the appropriate intensity of the magnetic waves for the remainder of your treatments.
Earplugs can help reduce the noise.
Treatment typically lasts 2050 minutes, depending on your specific treatment needs.
TMS treatments are performed five days per week, for about four to six weeks.
Treatment is then tapered off.
Results from TMS are not always permanent.
However, when symptoms return, TMS therapy can be repeated.
On average, positive results from TMS therapy last for a little over a year.
What Are the Benefits of TMS Therapy?
Some people who have TMS therapy do not have any side effects.
TMS can also cause facial pain if certain nerves are stimulated during the procedure.
Some people also experience dizziness or feel light-headed after TMS therapy.
Hearing loss could also occur, but using earplugs during treatment can prevent this potential side effect.
Seizures can also cause difficulty breathing and cut off oxygen to the brain, potentially causing brain damage.
In extremely rare cases, TMS can also causemaniaa mental condition characterized by hyperactivity and an abnormally elevated mood.
TMS and Age
There is no age requirement for transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Who Should Not Get TMS?
TMS is not appropriate for everyone.
TMS is most commonly used to treat people with depression symptoms that have not improved with medications.
However, the use of TMS for other neurological and mental health conditions is being researched.
Mild TMS side effects can include headaches, dizziness, and light-headedness.
In rare cases, serious side effects such as seizures can occur.
TMS is helpful for most people with depression who receive this treatment.
Results are not always permanent, but treatment can be repeated.
A Word From Verywell
Living with depression can negatively impact every aspect of your life.
The good news is, effective treatments are available.
While individual results will vary, TMS therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety.
TMS does not cause brain damage.
TMS is often covered by insurance.
Harvard Health Publishing.Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): hope for stubborn depression.
Clinical TMS Society.What conditions does TMS treat?
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2021;18(1-3):43-46.
Mayo Clinic.Transcranial magnetic stimulation.
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