What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD); it has been shown to be especially beneficial for people with treatment-resistant symptoms. TMS also shows promise for alleviating the symptoms of those living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and addiction.
TMS is available as an outpatient procedure, and as there is no sedation, patients can return to their daily routine right after a session. A highly-effective TMS treatment plan consists of 20-minute sessions, five times per week, performed over a four-to-six week period.
The procedure uses magnetic fields, produced by an electromagnetic coil, to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain responsible for mood. The coil is placed near the forehead, against the scalp, and a repetitive electromagnetic pulse is delivered to this mood-control center of the brain. It is believed, people with depression have decreased activity there, and these pulses stimulate the nerves, activating them and thus improving mood and, in some cases removing symptoms.
Does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy have side effects?
The side effects associated with TMS have been shown to be minimal and many patients report fewer than they had with medication-based treatments. Mild side effects may include:
- temporary soreness and scalp irritations at the administration site
- headaches
- lightheadedness
- Facial muscle spasms, twitching or tingling
Although rare, major side effects can include:
- mania, for some people who live with bipolar disorder
- hearing loss, due to insufficient ear protection during treatment
- seizures
You are not alone
Major Depressive Disorder can be treated and there are many options to do so. More than 350 million people worldwide live with symptoms of depression and 16.2 million people in the United States have reported at least one depressive episode within the past year and a half. TMS is one of the newest and most promising treatments for depression and the Holiner Psychiatric Group is proud to offer it as one of our services.
To learn more about TMS and schedule an appointment, contact us in Dallas at 972-566-4591 or fill out the form on this page.