You know how important it is to consider the pros and cons when deciding between various treatment options for your major depressive disorder (MDD) or treatment-resistant depression. You may be wondering how medication might impact your well-being, or how to find time for psychotherapy every week. You may have heard about NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and want to find out about the safety and side effects of TMS therapy.
Developed in the early 2000s, TMS therapy is a relatively new treatment option. It was FDA-cleared in 2008 to treat MDD and treatment-resistant depression. NeuroStar TMS therapy is a wonderful option if you are struggling with traditional treatment options
How TMS Works
TMS uses magnetic pulses to adjust your brain’s electrical activity. The goal of NeuroStar TMS therapy is to safely stimulate activity in specific regions of your brain—such as the region that controls your mood—that are experiencing a lack of electrical activity. The TMS device is placed near your scalp and generates a magnetic field that activates these specific, underperforming regions. This triggers your brain to send electrical impulses to other regions, regenerating existing neural pathways and forming some new neural pathways.
Common Side Effects of TMS
While NeuroStar TMS therapy is considered safe, some people can experience side effects. Some of the more common side effects include:
- Headache
- Scalp discomfort or pain
Many people experience one or more of these side effects when they start TMS treatment, but most find that they begin to ease over the course of their treatment.
Understanding the Safety of TMS
NeuroStar TMS therapy is regarded as a safe procedure and is generally well-tolerated, but it is important to tell us about your medical history. If you have a history of seizures, you should avoid TMS, as it can make you more susceptible to future seizures. You should also disclose if you have any metal implants in your head, or any magnetic metal implants in your body, as they can interfere with—or even become dislodged by—the NeuroStar TMS magnetic fields.
It is important to wear proper ear protection during your NeuroStar TMS treatments. The TMS device can be loud, especially as it is placed near your scalp. Earplugs are a great way to protect your hearing during your treatment sessions.
If you experience any side effects or discomfort during treatment, tell one of our team members immediately. We may be able to adjust the intensity of the magnetic pulses to make your experience more comfortable. We can also assess the situation to prevent the rarer, more serious side effects or pain you may experience.
Contact Us To Learn More About the Safety Profile and Potential Side Effects of TMS Treatment
It is perfectly normal to have questions about your potential treatment options. You care about your well-being and are advocating for yourself. Contact us with any questions you may have—whether they are about the NeuroStar TMS treatment process or the safety and side effects of TMS therapy. You should have all the information you need about NeuroStar TMS before you begin, and that is what our team at Desert View Counseling is here for. You are our top priority.
