Frequently Asked Questions
TMS treatment is generally given 5 days a week for up to 4-6 weeks. The number of sessions needed for positive results is different for each person. This will be decided by the consultant and will be discussed at initial appointment.
You may feel a tapping sensation on the area of your scalp underneath the plate, in rhythm with the magnetic pulses. Other than this, however, there are no physical sensations. Patients often choose to read, listen to music or rest during the sessions.
Both ECT and rTMS are accepted treatments for depression and other mood-related conditions.
One of the main differences, however, is that rTMS treatment is non-invasive and also does not require any anaesthetic.
rTMS uses magnetic pulses, whereas ECT uses electric current. ECT is invasive, requires anaesthetic, and prolongs recovery. Whilst rTMS recovery is immediate.
While there are a range of side-effects associated with ECT, only minimal side effects are related to rTMS therapy.
There is no recovery period after a rTMS session, and you can resume your daily activities immediately. Some patients may feel mild scalp irritation or tingling after their first session, but this usually goes away on subsequent visits.
Anyone with metal implants, aneurysm clips and coils, cardiac pacemakers, cardiac defibrillators, facial tattoos that may have magnetic ink or ink that is sensitive to magnets, implanted stimulators, metal implants in the ears or eyes, stents in the neck or brain, bullet fragments or shrapnel near the head. Contraindications also include epilepsy and other neurological conditions.
– Easily Tolerated
– Non-invasive and no medication
– No anaesthesia or sedation
– No change in daily activities
– Minimal side effects
– Quicker response compared to antidepressants
One of the main benefits of rTMS is its minimal side effects. The potential side effects of rTMS include discomfort at the site of stimulation, scalp discomfort, transient headache, neck pain and facial twitching during treatment. In very rare cases, a seizure may occur.
“Recent NICE guidance (IPG 542) concluded that evidence on rTMS for depression showed no major safety concerns.” -The Royal College of Psychiatrists
