Depressive illness can severely affect the quality of life. After trying different treatment methods, many people are still looking for an effective way with less side effects to treat their depression. Meanwhile, the treatment of depression with rTMS as an effective and advanced treatment method has attracted the attention of many people. If you want to learn more about treating depression with rTMS, don't miss this article.

How does the treatment of depression with rTMS work?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an advanced and effective treatment method that has received a lot of attention these days. This treatment method uses magnetic pulses to target nerve cells in the brain. In people suffering from depression, the activity of some brain areas decreases, especially in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for mood regulation. By creating a concentrated magnetic field, the rTMS device activates these underactive areas non-invasively and without the need for anesthesia.

These magnetic pulses, passing painlessly through the skull, induce weak electrical currents in nerve cells. Repetition of these stimulations during multiple sessions helps rebuild and strengthen the neural pathways and restores the brain's chemical activity to a normal state. In fact, treating depression with RTMS works like a physical therapy for brain cells. and teaches the brain how to regain its healthy activity patterns and ultimately reduce the symptoms of depression.

Why rTMS device is the best medical equipment for treating depression?

According to the many and unique features of the method of treating depression with rTMS, this method will have significant positive effects compared to other methods. These advantages have led to the treatment of depression using the rTMS device as a smart and low-risk choice for many patients.

The most important benefits of treating depression with rTMS are as follows:

• Non-invasiveness: this treatment method is performed completely without surgery, incisions or the need for anesthesia
• Less side effects: unlike drugs, it does not cause systemic side effects such as weight gain or digestive problems
• High effectiveness: It has shown very favorable results in the treatment of drug-resistant depression
• No disturbance in life: treatment of depression in this way will not cause disturbance in the patient's life
• Targeted therapy: magnetic pulses stimulate only a specific area of the brain without affecting other parts
• No need for medication: This method can reduce the need to take antidepressants and their side effects
• Approved safety: The treatment of depression with the rTMS device has been approved by world-reputable organizations such as the FDA for the treatment of depression

Who are good candidates for treating depression with rTMS?

Treatment of depression with rTMS is not suitable for all people and the final diagnosis of this method should be done by a specialist doctor. However, using this method is recommended for patients who get the best results from it. These people usually have common characteristics; Features that make them the main candidates for this treatment method.

This group of people includes:

• Patients with moderate to severe depression
• People who have not responded to antidepressants
• Patients who do not tolerate the side effects of drugs
• Those who are looking for a non-pharmacological method
• People for whom electroshock therapy (ECT) is not suitable
• Pregnant or lactating women with a definite doctor's opinion
• Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• People looking for faster symptom relief

What are the stages of an rTMS treatment session?

Awareness of the process of treating depression with the rTMS device can help reduce stress and increase patient cooperation. A treatment session usually has a simple and specific process that is done without the need for special preparation from the patient.

The stages of a depression treatment session with rTMS are as follows:

• Patient preparation: You sit comfortably in a special chair
• Determining the treatment point: Using the device, the doctor determines the exact stimulation point on your head to start the treatment
• Motion threshold measurement: A series of pulses with different intensities are sent to determine the minimum energy required to activate the nerves
• Placement of the magnetic coil: The coil of the device is placed on the specified area of the head and is completely fixed
• Start pulsing: The device starts sending fast, repetitive magnetic pulses that sound like a click
• End of the session: After the 20-40 minute session, you can immediately leave the clinic and get to work

Tricks to increase the positive effects of treating depression with rTMS

In order to get the most out of treating depression with rTMS, your cooperation with your doctor is very important. This treatment is an interactive process and following some points can significantly increase its effectiveness. The most important principle in this field is full adherence to the treatment plan prescribed by the doctor. Regular and uninterrupted attendance at meetings gives the brain time to establish new and healthy neural patterns. On the other hand, following the principles of a healthy lifestyle, including enough sleep, balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, provides a suitable platform for better brain function and also improves the desired result of treatment.

Besides depression treatment sessions with rTMS, starting psychotherapy or speech therapy sessions can also have great effects. Combining these two methods will help you improve your coping skills and negative thought patterns in addition to biological improvement. You should be honest with your treatment team and report any mood changes or mild side effects so that the treatment protocol can be readjusted as needed. Remember that treating depression in this way is an investment in your mental health, and patience and a positive attitude will pave the way to lasting recovery.

Nurali; The best neurology clinic for the treatment of depression with rTMS

The treatment of depression with rTMS is a modern, effective and very low-risk method to overcome this difficult disease. Nourali neurology clinic is ready to provide treatment services at the highest quality level by using the latest devices in the world as well as having the most prominent neurologists and psychiatrists. At Nourali Clinic, we believe that every patient deserves the best treatment.

FAQ

Is rTMS also suitable for resistant depression?

This method is also useful for resistant depressions and can be a significant therapeutic response for these diseases.

Is the rTMS method suitable for all depression sufferers?

In this context, medical evaluation is very important; For example, certain conditions, such as a history of seizures, will prevent the safe use of rTMS.

Do people after treatment of depression with rTMS need special care after each session?

Usually, special care is not necessary and a short break with drinking water is enough to reduce possible fatigue.