Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a popular treatment for people battling depression, especially those for whom other treatments have not worked. But can TMS therapy cause seizures? The simple answer is: Yes, but it is extremely rare. Seizures are one of the potential side effects, but for most patients, TMS is a safe and effective treatment. In this article, we will explore what TMS therapy is, the risks associated with it, and who might be at an increased risk of having a seizure.
What is TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment for depression. It uses a magnetic coil placed on the patient’s scalp to create magnetic pulses that stimulate specific areas of the brain. These magnetic pulses help regulate mood by improving the way brain cells communicate with each other. TMS is often used when other forms of treatment, like medication or talk therapy, do not bring significant improvement.
How TMS Works: During a session, a patient sits comfortably while a coil is placed against their scalp. The coil sends repeated magnetic pulses that can cause small electrical currents in the brain, stimulating areas that control mood. The sessions usually last 20-40 minutes and are conducted several times a week over a few weeks.
Can TMS Therapy Cause Seizures?
One of the most common questions patients ask is, “Can TMS therapy cause seizures?” The answer is yes, but seizures during TMS therapy are very rare. Studies have shown that the risk of a seizure occurring during TMS is less than 1%. This is comparable to the risk of seizure from many common antidepressant medications.
In most cases, TMS-induced seizures are self-limiting, which means they stop on their own without causing long-term harm. It is important to remember that the benefits of TMS therapy often outweigh this small risk, especially for patients who have not found relief from other treatments.
What Increases the Risk of Seizures with TMS?
The risk of seizures from TMS therapy is very low, but some factors can increase the likelihood of this side effect. Here are a few situations that may increase the risk:
- History of Seizures: People with a personal or family history of epilepsy or seizures are at a slightly higher risk.
- Neurological Conditions: Conditions such as brain tumors or traumatic brain injuries can increase the chances of having a seizure.
- Medications: Certain medications, especially those that lower the seizure threshold, can contribute to a higher risk. These include some antidepressants and antipsychotics.
- Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep has been linked to an increased risk of seizures during TMS therapy.
- Alcohol or Substance Use: Excessive alcohol or drug use can also increase seizure risk.
Your doctor must assess your medical history before starting TMS to determine if you have any of these risk factors.
How Rare Are Seizures with TMS Therapy?
The occurrence of seizures during TMS therapy is extremely rare. Studies suggest that fewer than 1 in 30,000 TMS treatments lead to a seizure. To put this in perspective, the risk of having a seizure due to taking certain antidepressant medications can be higher than the risk with TMS.
Common Side Effects of TMS Therapy
While seizures are a rare side effect, there are other more common side effects associated with TMS therapy. These include:
- Scalp Discomfort: Some patients report feeling discomfort or tingling on their scalp during the treatment.
- Headache: Mild headaches are common but usually go away after treatment or with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Lightheadedness: A small number of people feel lightheaded right after treatment.
These side effects are usually mild and go away shortly after treatment. Most patients find TMS therapy to be well-tolerated.
Who Should Avoid TMS Therapy?
While TMS therapy is considered safe, certain groups of people may need to avoid this treatment. These include:
- Individuals with Metal Implants: Anyone with metal implants in or around their head, such as cochlear implants or aneurysm clips, should avoid TMS. The magnetic fields used in TMS can interfere with these devices.
- People with a History of Seizures: Although TMS can be performed in people with a history of seizures, it requires careful consideration and monitoring. Your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
- Pregnant Women: There is limited research on the safety of TMS during pregnancy, so it’s usually recommended to avoid TMS until after childbirth.
How to Minimize Risks During TMS Therapy
To keep the risks as low as possible, patients need to follow these guidelines:
- Get Enough Sleep: Sleep deprivation is a known trigger for seizures, so getting enough rest is important.
- Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and recreational drugs can increase seizure risk, so they should be avoided during TMS treatment.
- Inform Your Doctor About Medications: Make sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Your doctor might adjust your treatment plan to minimize the risk of seizures.
What to Expect if a Seizure Happens During TMS
If a seizure does occur during TMS therapy, healthcare professionals are trained to handle it immediately. The magnetic pulses will be stopped, and the patient will be monitored until the seizure ends. In most cases, TMS-induced seizures are short and do not cause lasting harm.
After a seizure, your healthcare provider may reassess your treatment plan. Some patients can continue with TMS after a seizure, while others may need to discontinue treatment. The decision will depend on individual risk factors and the severity of the seizure.
Benefits of TMS Therapy Outweigh the Risks
Despite the rare risk of seizures, TMS therapy has helped many patients with depression, especially those who have not responded well to other forms of treatment. TMS is effective in reducing symptoms of depression and improving overall quality of life. It is non-invasive, does not require anesthesia, and does not have the side effects often associated with antidepressant medications.
Patients considering TMS therapy should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. For many, the possibility of improving their mental health far outweighs the small risk of a seizure.
Conclusion
So, can TMS therapy cause seizures? Yes, but the risk is extremely rare. TMS therapy is generally a safe and effective option for treating depression, with a very low risk of serious side effects like seizures. If you are considering TMS, it is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any concerns you may have.
The key takeaway is that while seizures can happen during TMS therapy, they are very rare and usually self-limiting. The benefits of TMS, especially for people who have not had success with other treatments, often outweigh the small risks. By working closely with a healthcare provider, you can determine if TMS is the right choice for you.
Explore TMS Therapy with Confidence
Wondering if TMS therapy can cause seizures? While rare, it’s a safe treatment for many. If you’re struggling with depression, talk to our experts at American TMS Clinics. We’ll guide you through the process and help determine if TMS is the right choice for you. Get in touch Today!
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