Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder may include extreme mood swings, such as mania and depression, difficulty getting together with other people, trouble sleeping, and even suicidal thoughts.
Fortunately, there are treatment options that can help people with Bipolar Disorder manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. One such treatment is called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). In this blog post, we will discuss what TMS therapy is, how it works, and whether it’s an effective treatment option for Bipolar Disorder.
What is TMS therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS therapy, is a painless, non-invasive procedure that involves using magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The TMS device consists of a coil that generates a magnetic field, which passes through the skull and into the brain. This magnetic field can affect the activity of brain cells in certain areas of the brain. TMS therapy can be used to treat diverse conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and even Bipolar Disorder.
How does TMS therapy for Bipolar Disorder work?
TMS therapy works by changing the activity of brain cells in certain areas of the brain related to mood regulation. During a TMS therapy session, a TMS device is placed on the scalp and directed to the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for regulating emotions, moods and behavior. The magnetic field generated by the TMS device stimulates the prefrontal cortex and promotes the release of mood-regulating neurotransmitters. This can help relieve the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.
Is TMS therapy effective for Bipolar Disorder?
Several studies have shown that TMS therapy can be effective in treating Bipolar Disorder. TMS therapy has been found to improve mood, reduce symptoms of mania and depression, and improve overall quality of life in people with Bipolar Disorder. While TMS therapy may not utterly cure Bipolar Disorder, it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms.
What are the potential side effects of TMS therapy?
Headache
Headache is the most common side effect of TMS therapy, affecting up to 50% of patients. These headaches are generally mild to moderate and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, in some cases, they can be harsh enough to require medical attention. If you experience headaches during or after TMS therapy, it is crucial to tell your healthcare provider right away.
seizures
In rare cases, TMS therapy can trigger seizures, which are sudden episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Meanwhile, seizures barely occur in patients with a history of epilepsy or others seizures interference may be at higher risk. If you have seizures during or after TMS therapy, get medical help right away.
Discomfort or tingling sensation
TMS therapy may cause mild discomfort or tingling on the scalp where the magnetic coils are placed. These sensations are generally temporary and will go away on their own within a few hours of treatment. In some cases, the sensation can last for days or weeks.
Hearing Problems
TMS therapy can even cause temporary hearing problems, such as ringing in the ears or decreased hearing sensitivity. These symptoms generally go away on their own within a few hours of treatment. However, if symptoms persist you should inform your healthcare provider.
Cognitive Change
TMS therapy can cause temporary changes in cognitive function, such as memory problems or difficulty focusing. These symptoms generally go away on their own within a few hours of treatment. Patients with a history of cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative disorders may be at increased risk for cognitive changes.
How am I able to access TMS therapy for Bipolar Disorder?
If you think TMS therapy may be an appropriate treatment option for your Bipolar Disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a clinic that offers TMS therapy or provide you with more information about this procedure. All insurance coverage may not cover TMS therapy, so it is crucial to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover TMS therapy.
Overall, TMS therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for Bipolar Disorder. It works by changing the activity of brain cells in certain areas of the brain, which can help relieve symptoms of Bipolar Disorder. While TMS therapy may not work for everybody, it is worth considering if you live with Bipolar Disorder and are trying to find new treatment options. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether TMS therapy might be a viable treatment option for you.
