Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) helps symptoms of depression, anxiety, and addiction. This treatment option has proven effective when other traditional methods, like therapies and medication, are not. Some patients hesitate to get the treatment they need because of the magnetic stimulation in the brain. Is TMS therapy safe?
Answering Your TMS Therapy Questions
There are a lot of common questions revolved around, is TMS therapy safe? This relatively new treatment method that began treating mental health disorders in the 1980s raises a lot of important questions. Is TMS therapy safe and what are the side effects?
Find more answers to other TMS therapy FAQs.
Is TMS Therapy Safe?
The FDA has approved TMS therapy as a safe treatment for mental health disorders. TMS therapy is a safe and effective option for those suffering from depression, anxiety, and addiction.
TMS therapy for depression and anxiety is noninvasive. It simply uses an over-the-head coil to administer brief magnetic pulses. These pulses are targeted to affect certain areas of the brain. Treatment requires no sedation, anesthesia, or muscle relaxants. Often, patients are able to return to work after their session.
Physicians do ask that all jewelry and credit cards be removed. Similar to an MRI exam, any item that reacts to magnets should be removed.
Earplugs are also recommended as the TMS machines produce a loud clicking sound. Staff supplies earplugs to prevent the risk of hearing loss in the short and long-term.
What are the Side Effects of TMS Therapy?
Although TMS therapy is safe, like other medical treatment methods, there are some side effects.
Mild side effects some patients experience after TMS therapy include:
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms and twitching
- Scalp irritation- where the electromagnetic coil was positioned
- Light-headedness
These side effects of TMS therapy don’t occur in every patient and do not last long when they do. With regular treatment, side effects lessen in occurrence.
Ask your Physician: Is TMS Therapy Safe?
Ask your doctor “is TMS therapy safe” for you if you have bipolar disorder or have experienced seizures. There have been cases of more severe side effects with these conditions.
Patients with bipolar disorder may experience a manic episode after treatment.
Those who have experienced seizures or have epilepsy may have an increased risk of seizures with TMS therapy. However, lower than 1% of those receiving this type of treatment experience seizures as a side effect.
Physicians can answer your questions specific to your health situation. They can determine if TMS therapy is safe for you and how it will benefit your depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder.
TMS Therapy for Mental Health Disorders in Florida
Contact TMS Therapy Now with any questions regarding “is TMS therapy safe?” Our licensed experts can discuss any current or potential health concerns when you seek treatment.
TMS therapy is an excellent and safe treatment option for patients struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction. Call 866.305.7668 today to reduce mental health disorder symptoms that don’t respond to traditional treatment. Find relief and live the life you deserve.