Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a new treatment option for bipolar depression, providing a way to target the root neurological causes of bipolar disorder without invasive treatments or side effects from medication. TMS for bipolar depression relies on magnetic stimulation distributed on top of the scalp and into deeper areas of the brain responsible for depressive symptoms. With next to no side effects and a wide range of patient eligibility, many people are asking, does TMS work for bipolar depression?
TMS in the Treatment of Bipolar Depression
Several studies have confirmed that TMS is uniquely positioned to provide treatment for bipolar depression. Statistically significant clinical responses have been observed when TMS targets the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area that, for people with bipolar depression, tends to perform poorly, with limited blood flow.
One study found that the use of TMS for bipolar depression improved several cognitive traits, including attention, verbal memory, problem-solving, working memory, and processing speed, all of which are often diminished during depressive episodes.
Some studies have found that 20 sessions of TMS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex caused a statistically significant change in depression ratings for those with treatment-resistant bipolar depression.
Safety Concerns
Are there safety concerns associated with TMS therapy for bipolar disorder?
Common Side Effects
TMS for bipolar depression has gained significant popularity because it comes with very few side effects. In fact, not all patients experience side effects, but those who do tend to experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, tingling, or other discomfort where the instruments are placed on the head. However, this does not affect everyone, and in those who are affected, it tends to go away after the first few sessions.
Serious Risks
There are some known risks, mainly the induction of seizures. TMS can lead to seizures for those who have a history of epilepsy, seizures, or other neurological conditions that affect the brain.
Prior to starting any TMS treatment for bipolar depression, you’ll undergo an evaluation to make sure that you qualify and that patient eligibility will contain questions relating to a history of seizures and similar conditions.
Safety Precautions
If you are considering TMS bipolar depression treatment, it’s important to recognize that there are some safety precautions.
For example, TMS uses powerful magnets, and if you have any type of implant near the skull or in the skull, like a skull plate or a Cochlear implant, it could cause injury and pain. These are things to discuss with a potential therapist prior to getting started.
Patient Eligibility for TMS
Nearly everyone is eligible for TMS because it has few, if any, contraindications or serious side effects. However, some criteria include that you do not currently have implants in the skull area or a history of seizures and epilepsy.
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
So, what should you expect when going for your TMS treatment session?
Treatment Process
The treatment process is fairly simple. A TMS technician will apply the electrodes to different places on your head. The first session or two is typically dedicated to mapping your brain, figuring out where different parts of your brain are located. Every brain is slightly different and this helps the technician to target the right areas like the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to help with symptoms.
Duration of Treatment
The duration of treatment for TMS and bipolar depression is based on individual circumstances, but in general, you can expect around 20-30 sessions, which take place every day of the week. This means that your treatment plan is typically concluded Within the span of a few weeks.
The length of time for your particular treatment will be decided upon before you start based on your patient history and any particular needs.
When you first arrive you’ll go through basic intake forms and be shown around but after that you’ll be taken directly to the patient room with the chair and TMS tools that will be used. During your session you can partake in relaxing activities like reading, listening to music, or meditating.
Patient Experience
During your sessions, you can expect to arrive and be taken to a room where you’ll be placed in a comfortable chair. While in the chair, your TMS technician will use the technology to apply magnetic stimulation to different parts of your brain. Most sessions last around 20 minutes.
These sessions are short and they do not require any type of anesthesia or other medication which means you can return to your daily schedule immediately after. It’s because of how short these sessions are and the fact that there are limited side effects that people are able to complete up to five sessions per week and move through their treatment plan within the span of several weeks.
Managing Side Effects
If you undergo TMS therapy for bipolar depression, it’s important that you keep note of any side effects you experience. Prior to your session, the facility where you receive your treatment will give you a list of potential side effects to look for and at what point you should reach out for more serious side effects like seizures.
Tips for Patients
If you are preparing for TMS bipolar depression treatment, there are some things you can do to manage your side effects more effectively. The best and simplest way to go about reducing potential symptoms is to take a small over-the-counter medication as approved by your physician to help with any potential headaches or scalp discomfort that you experience after your procedures.
Eating a healthy meal beforehand and participating in relaxation techniques like progressive relaxation, mindfulness, or meditation can also reduce the risk of mild side effects by helping you stay calm during the process.
Conclusion
Overall, does TMS work for bipolar depression? Yes, it absolutely does, and if you are considering TMS for bipolar depression, it’s important that you recognize that there are a few safety considerations but very limited side effects. Many patients enjoy relief almost immediately, and that relief is long-lasting, lasting for several months or even a year before new TMS therapy sessions are required. Consult with healthcare professionals to explore if TMS is a suitable treatment option for your condition.