Agoura Hills, CA – BNI Clinics published a blog post revealing the potential side effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS is an effective treatment option for many people who have had treatment-resistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), migraines, or wish to stop smoking. In general, this option comes with significantly fewer adverse side effects and reactions than traditional antidepressant medications. The procedure is non-invasive and utilizes electromagnetic energy to stimulate parts of the brain. TMS can influence and revitalize underactive cerebral regions because brain cells communicate through electricity.

“How long the TMS sessions last depends on the treated condition and type of TMS. Magnet strength, pulse strength, pulse patterns, and more can vary. Standard TMS protocol for treatment-resistant depression involves five 30-60 minute sessions per week. It typically lasts for 6 weeks. Individuals may feel relief from as early as the first week, but most begin noticing effects after the third week. Driving and returning to regular activities after a TMS session is perfectly safe,” the blog post states.

The side effects that are possible with TMS are minimal and mild. Typically, they subside after a few sessions. Common side effects of medication, such as weight changes, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction, do not occur for those who undergo TMS. This makes it ideal for those who do have negative reactions to medications. The side effects that might occur when undergoing TMS include pain at the treatment site, headaches, lightheadedness, neck pain, scalp pain, tingling and twitching, fatigue, and cognitive changes during treatment sessions. All of these respond well to over-the-counter medications and eventually dissipate. Rarely, some people might change their sleep patterns or sense of taste or experience sound sensitivity. These are also usually temporary.

Many people might believe that seizures are a common concern with TMS. The truth is that this likelihood is only around .008%. For those who have epilepsy, this number does increase, but it is still less than 3%. Even if someone does experience a seizure due to TMS treatment, the majority of them are harmless. This makes TMS an incredibly safe procedure overall. With that said, there is a risk if someone has metal in their head, which might include stints, bullet pieces, metal plates, permanent piercings, tattoos with metallic ink, etc. Because of the strength of the magnets used during TMS, it might cause those metals to move, which could be dangerous. If someone falls under that category, it is not recommended that they undergo TMS treatment. TMS’s positive effects of improving energy and mood greatly outweigh the minor risk of potential side effects.

“If you’re ready to try transcranial magnetic stimulation, the first step is to speak to your practitioner. They will know your personal health history, and you can discuss if you are a viable candidate for TMS. If you and your doctor conclude it would benefit you, they will likely refer you to a TMS specialist. Then, you’ll be able to try this safe, non-invasive TMS therapy for yourself and see the results it brings,” the blog post continues.

BNI Clinics offers mental health treatment for all age groups in the Los Angeles area. Because of this, young clients can stay with the facility through adulthood without having to go somewhere else. They provide psychological testing, individual therapy sessions, and TMS and ketamine therapy. Their facility is owned and operated by psychiatrists who walk with their clients every step of their mental health recovery journey, from diagnosis to medication management and beyond.

To learn more about BNI Clinics, visit their website or call them at (310) 691-5005.

BNI Clinics: Science-based, evidence-backed, compassion-led.

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For more information about BNI Clinics, contact the company here:

BNI Clinics
Maria Sarkisian
310-691-5005
maria@bnitreatment.com
28038 Dorothy Dr Ste#200
Agoura Hills, CA, 91301