If your doctor, neurologist, or other healthcare provider prescribes a round of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for your condition, you undoubtedly have a lot of questions. These can range from asking what’s involved in the process, whether there are side effects, and how often you need to receive treatment before you feel any effects. One of the bigger questions might be how long do the effects of TMS treatment last? Here’s a quick survey that can address that question as well as others
What Is TMS and How Does It Work?
What happens when you visit a TMS therapy center? TMS therapy works by applying a coil to part of your head. The procedure is noninvasive and doesn’t require surgery, haircutting, or attachments. The coil delivers a series of magnetic pulses to the brain over the course of a half-hour or so, depending on the treatment. The pulses are applied to stimulate brain activity and the signals between cells. This treatment may require daily applications over the course of a few weeks, but sessions are swift and painless with very few to no side effects.
When Does It Start To Work?
The most straightforward (if unsatisfying) answer is that it depends. The success of TMS therapy mostly depends on the condition of the patient. You may react differently to TMS than someone else depending on your brain’s state and ability to react to the treatment. Younger people experience results much more quickly because their brains are still developing, and they adapt faster. While some feel the positive effects of TMS within a week or two, others may take longer.
How Long?
Let’s return to the titular question, how long do the effects of TMS treatment last? Again, it depends. Whether you’re receiving TMS treatment for depression, tinnitus, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, PTSD, or something else, results vary—especially in how long they last. It’s especially important to realize that while TMS can provide relief from symptoms, it isn’t a cure for anything. With that in mind, studies have shown that many patients see their symptoms abate—if not entirely disappear—for some time after receiving a full round of treatment. Many patients also report that the worst of symptoms may even vanish entirely.
What’s Next?
If you are planning a visit to a TMS therapy center, bring up these questions and others with your doctor or neurologist. They’ll be happy to provide answers and documentation on the effects and benefits of TMS before you schedule your first treatment. Feel free to reach out to us here with any questions or to set up a consultation with one of our doctors. You can also reach us at (949) 652-7301. We are located in Corona del Mar, CA, but are open to all inquiries and potential patients.
