Does TMS Therapy Have Side Effects?

TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment that uses MRI-strength pulses to strengthen the area in the brain that regulates mood and behavior leading to alleviated symptoms of anxious depression. There are little to no side effects of TMS therapy. There are no long term side effects of treatment, however there are potential short terms side effects. The most common ones that patients tend to experience are:

• Nausea
• Mild Headaches
• Mental Fatigue
• Changes in Sleep Patterns
• Emotional Highs and Lows
• Increased Energy Post-Treatment
• Scalp Discomfort at the Treatment Site

1. Nausea

Nausea is not one of the more common side effects. Usually, only patients that are prone to nausea experience this side effect following TMS treatment. It is encouraged for patients to come to treatment daily with something in their stomachs to prevent nausea. However, Patients are more than welcome to take anything over the counter before or after treatment to aid in preventing/soothing nausea.

2. Mild Headaches

Headaches are considered the most common side effect of TMS. Patients that are headache prone may continue to experience headaches from TMS. Patients are more than welcome to take anything over the counter before or after treatment to aid in preventing/soothing headaches.

3. Mental Fatigue

Treatment can make patients feel a little tired afterward, just like you got done taking a long exam. Patients that already experience fatigue may not notice a difference from TMS treatment.

4. Changes in Sleep Patterns

Many patients report improved sleep as one of the first noticeable benefits of their TMS treatment. Some patients might notice changes in their sleep schedule, such as difficulty falling asleep or experiencing more vivid dreams. These changes are typically temporary and tend to resolve as the treatment progresses. If you experience any sleep disturbances, our team at Salience TMS is here to provide guidance and support to help you manage these changes effectively.

5. Emotional Highs and Lows

As communication in your neural networks increase, many patients experience temporary emotional highs and lows. This is a sign that you are improving and treatment is working. Consistency with your schedule treatments is key. Please stay the course to experience the full benefit of treatment and lasting results. Our compassionate team is always available to discuss any emotional changes you may experience and to offer support throughout your treatment journey.

5. Increased Energy Post-Treatment

Interestingly, many patients report an increase in energy, motivation, and ability following TMS therapy sessions. This boost in energy can be a welcome change, especially for those who have been dealing with the fatigue often associated with anxious depression and other mood disorders. The increased energy levels can help enhance overall well-being and improve daily functioning. Our team at Salience TMS will monitor your progress and help you make the most of this positive side effect to support your recovery and overall mental health.

6. Scalp Discomfort at the Treatment Site

At the beginning of treatment, it is normal to feel discomfort or irritation at the site of the coil or other facial muscles. The coil’s placement over the target treatment location may also allow sensations to be felt not just under it but in areas proximal as well. Facial muscle twitching during the treatment itself, such as the eyebrow raising, jaw movement, or a tickle on the top of the nose, is all normal.

Side effects from treatment are temporary, as they primarily occur during the beginning of treatment. Most patients experience side effects coming on as they are leaving treatment; by the time they get to their next destination, the side effects have dissipated. Think of treatment like a little workout for your brain and the side effects like being sore from working out.

At Salience TMS, we pride ourselves on having the highest-trained TMS treatment team in the country. We train our teams thoroughly in all TMS therapy areas throughout our teams’ 4-6 week training course. They work hard to ensure our patients are comfortable, understand what’s happening with TMS, and provide the best environment possible for treatment. In addition, our team can help you understand the side effects of TMS therapy. See why many patients are choosing Salience as their provider for TMS Therapy.

Want more information? Learn more about TMS therapy and see if TMS is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions