Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and certain neurological disorders can be treated with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive procedure. By delivering magnetic pulses to certain brain areas, TMS stimulates nerve cells and regulates mood. People who have not responded to traditional treatments such as medication and therapy or who experience intolerable side effects from these treatments may benefit from this therapy.
It is typically necessary to consult a healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or TMS specialist, to prepare for TMS therapy. A healthcare provider will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's mental health history, including previous treatment and response to treatment, as well as any current symptoms and functional impairments. To rule out any underlying medical conditions that may affect the safety or efficacy of TMS therapy, the provider may also perform a physical examination and order laboratory tests or imaging studies. In light of this evaluation, the healthcare provider will devise a treatment plan based on TMS.
It involves using a device to generate magnetic pulses that are delivered to specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation during a TMS procedure. During a TMS session, a coil is placed against the individual's scalp near the targeted brain region while the individual sits comfortably in a chair. In order to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, the TMS device delivers repetitive magnetic pulses that penetrate the scalp and skull. Typically, the procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia, so individuals remain alert and awake during it. Depending on the individual's response to treatment, TMS sessions typically last between 20 and 30 minutes and are repeated several times each week over a period of several weeks.
TMS therapy has a minimal recovery period, with most people able to resume their normal activities immediately after each session. During or after the procedure, some individuals may experience mild discomfort or headaches, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. To achieve optimal treatment outcomes, individuals undergoing TMS therapy need to attend all scheduled treatment sessions according to their healthcare provider. The full benefits of TMS therapy may take several weeks to manifest, and ongoing maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain symptom relief after treatment.
TMS therapy is generally considered safe and well-tolerated for most individuals, with minimal risk of serious side effects. Some common side effects include mild headaches, scalp discomfort, or muscle twitching during the procedure. Individuals with a history of seizures or bipolar disorder may experience more severe side effects, such as seizures or mania. Before starting TMS therapy, individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and disclose any relevant medical history or concerns.
The treatment plan may be adjusted based on individual needs following TMS therapy, as well as ongoing monitoring of symptoms and response to treatment. In order to maintain long-term remission and prevent symptom recurrence, healthcare providers may recommend maintenance TMS treatments. TMS therapy requires individuals to continue other aspects of their mental health treatment plan, such as therapy or medication, if their healthcare provider recommends it. In order to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and address any concerns or changes in symptoms experienced during or after TMS therapy, it is essential to communicate with the healthcare provider openly.
