What Is Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?

TMS or transcranial magnetic stimulation is an alternative depression treatment. It is for patients with treatment-resistant depression. These individuals are not responsive to antidepressants anymore. It can be a drastic change for some patients, but knowing more about it can make the transition better. If you want to understand more about deep transcranial magnetic stimulation, here are the facts.

What transcranial magnetic stimulation is

This is a non-invasive treatment. It uses several magnetic fields to arouse the brain’s nerve cells. A helmet-like device delivers repetitive magnetic pulses. That is why many people know it as deep TMS or repetitive TMS.

It helps improve severe depression symptoms. This treatment can help patients who are not improving with standard depression treatments. The process can also treat other mental issues. Individuals with schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety can improve with TMS.

How transcranial magnetic stimulation works

The psychiatrist will place an electromagnetic coil against the person’s scalp near the forehead. The coils send electromagnetic energy. The energy reaches the nerve cells through magnetic pulses. It targets the brain areas responsible for depression. The stimulation affects how the brain works. It then improves the mood and eases the symptoms.

The first treatment

The psychiatrist will identify the most ideal spot to place the magnets on the patient’s head. The doctor will also determine the most ideal dose of magnetic energy. This first TMS appointment often lasts for about an hour. The patient will go to the treatment room and sit in a comfortable reclining chair. The psychiatrist will give the patient earplugs for the procedure.

Placing the electromagnetic coils on the patient’s head will be next. Switching it on and off repeatedly will produce pulses. This produces a clicking sound for a few seconds. Then, a pause will follow. The person will feel a tapping sensation on the forehead. Mapping is another name for this procedure.

The psychiatrist will determine the right intensity of magnetic energy. This is possible by increasing the magnetic energy until the hands or fingers twitch. This is the patient’s motor threshold. Psychiatrists use this to determine the right magnetic dose for the patient. Side effects and symptoms often determine the amount of stimulation.

Preparing for transcranial magnetic stimulation

The psychiatrist can help prepare the patient for TMS. There will be a complete physical exam. The lab results can help the doctor see if there are physical reasons leading to depression. Then, a psychiatric evaluation can also tell the doctor how severe the depression is. The patient must tell the psychiatrist about the following:

• Medical devices inside the body
• Current pregnancy
• Desire to be pregnant
• Medications
• Mental issues
• Previous TMS treatment
• Medical conditions
• Severe headaches
• Brain damage from injury or illness
• History of seizures