Choosing TMS Therapy: What You Must Know
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy is a proven and a safe treatment modality for people suffering from MDD (Major Depressive Disorders) and TRD(Treatment Resistant Depression). Your doctor will help you choose the right treatment option that will work the best for you. Here are a few points about TMS that will help you know more about this type of therapy.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive technique that uses magnetic pulses to activate certain areas of the brain. It is promising as a treatment for certain neuropsychiatric conditions, especially TRD (Treatment-Resistant Depression) and MDD (Major Depressive Disorder). Different types of TMS are deep transcranial magnetic stimulation(dTMS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(rTMS), accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation, and intermittent theta-burst stimulation. Depression is a condition that can be treated, but for some patients, the standard treatment like medications or talk therapy might not work. In this case, repetitive TMS therapy may be the best option.
TMS therapy procedure
TMS therapy is done at the doctor’s office. You will be allowed to sit on a chair with earplugs on while the TMS specialist will evaluate the treatment site and calculate how much magnetic pulses will benefit you the most. The coil is placed on your head which will send the magnetic pulses to the brain. You will hear a clicking noise and a tap on your head throughout the session.
Patients with metal implants on the brain, seizure disorders, or taking certain medications may discuss with your doctor prior to TMS therapy. However, TMS is a safe option for pregnant women.
How long should you be treated?
TMS therapy sessions range from 4 to 6 weeks. This may vary according to the patient’s response to the treatment. Each TMS session lasts up to 20-40 minutes.
What are the side effects and cost of TMS therapy?
When compared to depression medication, TMS therapy has very minimal side effects. This mode of treatment is well-tolerated and safe. There is a possibility of having a mild headache after the therapy, but it will recede over time. Since anesthesia is not used, the patient can drive back home after the session and engage in daily activities. Your doctor will discuss with you any existing medical conditions and also the medications that you take regularly. This will help your doctor to decide if TMS therapy is right for you.
Most insurance companies cover TMS. TMS therapy starts from $300 per session on average. The total cost of TMS can vary from $6,000 to $12,000.
TMS therapy is one of the safest treatment options for depression. You can talk to our doctor and book an appointment with us. For further queries, please contact us.