How to Prepare for TMS Therapy
Discover how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can help treatment-resistant depression here.
Table of Contents
What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?
Since 1985, researchers have studied TMS for its effects on brain cells. In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the procedure as a treatment for major depressive disorder. 1
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How Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Administered?
TMS Considerations
TMS therapy can occur four to five times per week for four to six weeks. Each session can last from a few minutes to over half an hour. Medical professionals determine the treatment plan using the following factors:
- Age: Younger patients can tolerate higher doses and longer treatment cycles.
- Device Type: Different types of devices provide varying levels of magnetic stimulation. Some examples are Brainsway, CloudTMS, and Neuro Star.
- Condition Severity: Depression varies in degree, affecting the therapy’s pattern and structure.
- Response to Treatment: Positive responses to the treatment may result in a shorter course.
How Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Differ From Other Techniques?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) differs from other techniques in its noninvasive nature. For instance, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), another form of brain stimulation, requires anesthesia. ECT involves sending small electric currents to the brain. These shocks can induce convulsions and cause confusion and memory loss.
Types of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
- Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): rTMS sends more narrow and shallow magnetic waves to the brain. This method uses a figure-eight coil, which can stimulate around 3 cm3 of brain matter.
- Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS): dTMS provides deeper and wider magnetic waves. This method uses an H-coil, allowing the waves to stimulate up to 17 cm3 of brain matter. This increases the likelihood of targeting the affected area.
When Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Used?
TMS Treatment
Research has revealed its potential to treat other disorders and conditions. These include:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Chronic pain
Side Effects of TMS
Like medications and other procedures, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can cause side effects. Nonetheless, they are usually mild and manageable. In fact, patients can proceed with their daily activities immediately following each session. Some of the side effects of TMS include:
- Headaches
- Scalp discomfort
- Facial pain
- Lightheadedness
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
How to Prepare for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Medical professionals develop individualized treatment plans to fit each patient’s specific needs. To get the best results, medical professionals will take the following steps:
Physical Exam
Psychological Evaluation
A thorough psychological evaluation will reveal whether you are an ideal candidate. This helps to avoid complications from the wrong diagnosis. For example, transcranial magnetic stimulation can exacerbate manic symptoms in bipolar patients. Thus, mental health professionals must test and diagnose all patients before proceeding with TMS.
Patient Information Review
The doctor will review your medical history, medications, and lifestyle to ensure your treatment plan fits your needs. Here is a list of information your doctor needs to know:
- Current or past health issues
- Current medications
- Sleep patterns
- Stress factors
- Lifestyle habits
- Depressions treatment timeline
- Side effects of any medications used recently
Preparation Before Your First Appointment
Learn All You Can
Declare Pertinent Information
Put Your Comfort First
Develop a Strong Support Network
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Expectations
People who opt for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) do so after medication and individual therapy have yielded poor results or worsened their quality of life. TMS therapy is an effective alternative, void of potential side effects and risk of dependency on antidepressants.
A Great Alternative for Resistant Depression
Noninvasive Procedure
No Sedation
Profound Treatment TMS Services
At Profound Treatment, we strive to improve the lives of every client who enters our care. We provide a variety of treatment options to ensure each patient has access to the help they need. Some examples include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), holistic therapies, and medication management.
Contact Us Today
Profound Treatment is here for you every step of the way. We understand recovery is not a one-size-fits-all approach. So, we work with each individual personally for the best results. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you achieve a higher quality of life!
Resources
- 1https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21189465/
- 2https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-for-depression-2018022313335
- 3https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/media/2020/sarah-h-lisanby-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-safety-and-risk
- 4https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-permits-marketing-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-treatment-obsessive-compulsive-disorder
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