TMS Therapy in Dallas
Covered By Insurance
A different treatment option for depression.
Why Choose PsychDFW for TMS Therapy.
What We Treat
TMS therapy also has a high success rate in treating mental health conditions. According to studies, up to 70% of patients with depression who undergo TMS therapy experience significant improvement in their symptoms. The success rate of TMS therapy for anxiety and PTSD is also high, with many patients reporting a reduction in symptoms after the treatment.
In addition to depression, TMS therapy has also been shown to be effective in treating anxiety and PTSD. Studies have shown that TMS therapy can reduce anxiety symptoms in patients with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. TMS therapy has also been used to treat PTSD, with studies showing that it can reduce symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hyperarousal.
TMS therapy has also been used to treat other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). While the evidence for the effectiveness of TMS therapy for these conditions is not as robust as it is for depression, anxiety, and PTSD, there is some evidence to suggest that TMS therapy may be beneficial for these conditions.
Mechanism of Action
TMS therapy works by delivering magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain that are responsible for controlling mood, behavior, and cognitive functions. During the procedure, the patient sits in a comfortable chair, and a specialized coil is placed on the scalp. The coil then delivers magnetic pulses to the brain, which stimulate nerve cells and increase the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
The increased activity of these neurotransmitters is believed to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and alleviate other symptoms associated with mental health conditions. TMS therapy also has an effect on the default mode network (DMN), which is a network of brain regions that are active when the brain is at rest. Studies have shown that patients with depression have overactivity in the DMN, which can be reduced by TMS therapy.
While TMS therapy is generally safe, there are some risks associated with this treatment option. The most common side effects of TMS therapy include headache, scalp discomfort, and lightheadedness. These side effects are generally mild and typically go away on their own within a few hours after each session.
However, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks associated with TMS therapy. Some of the risks of TMS therapy include:
Seizures: TMS therapy may trigger a seizure in people who are already prone to seizures or have a history of seizures. However, the risk of seizure is very low, estimated to be less than 0.1%.
Discomfort: During TMS therapy, patients may experience discomfort or pain in the scalp or facial muscles. This discomfort can usually be managed by adjusting the intensity or duration of the stimulation.
Headache: Some patients may experience a mild headache immediately following TMS therapy. This headache typically goes away on its own within a few hours.
Hearing loss: In rare cases, TMS therapy may cause hearing loss, particularly if the stimulation is delivered near the ear. However, this risk is very low and can be minimized by using appropriate safety measures.
Other side effects: TMS therapy may cause other side effects, such as lightheadedness, tingling sensations, or muscle twitches. These side effects are generally mild and temporary.
It’s important to note that TMS therapy is a non-invasive, outpatient procedure that does not require anesthesia or sedation. Most patients tolerate TMS therapy well, and the benefits of the treatment often outweigh the potential risks. However, it’s important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about TMS therapy with your healthcare provider.
Individuals who have metallic objects in their head, such as a pacemaker, aneurysm clips, or cochlear implants, are not good candidates for TMS therapy.
TMS therapy is also not recommended for individuals who have a history of seizures or who are at an increased risk of seizures. Additionally, TMS therapy is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals who are taking certain medications, such as antipsychotics or mood stabilizers.
The length and frequency of TMS therapy sessions vary depending on the individual’s condition and the severity of their symptoms. Generally, TMS therapy sessions last for 20-30 minutes, and patients typically receive treatment five days a week for four to six weeks.
While TMS therapy is generally safe, it is not recommended for everyone. Individuals who have metallic objects in their head, a history of seizures, or who are taking certain medications are not good candidates for TMS therapy. It is important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and risks of the treatment and determine if it is the best course of action for your individual needs.