Also known as transcranial magnetic stimulation, NeuroStar TMS therapy could help manage depression symptoms that have not responded to previous treatment efforts. It has also been cleared by the FDA to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxious depression, and adolescent depression.
When considering this medical treatment, you may have questions such as, “Does TMS cause memory loss?” NeuroStar TMS therapy has not been linked with memory loss, and our team at Synergy Strive will explain what to expect with this treatment so you feel confident about the process.
NeuroStar TMS therapy focuses on the left prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain responsible for mood regulation. Your provider will place a device against your head to deliver magnetic pulses to your brain. These pulses activate cells that release neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. An imbalance of these chemicals is one potential cause of depression, so using NeuroStar TMS therapy to ensure that they are at a healthy level may relieve your symptoms without affecting your memory.
The length of a NeuroStar TMS session is usually around 20 minutes, and many patients receive five sessions per week for seven weeks. NeuroStar TMS is an outpatient procedure where sedation is not required, so you will be able to resume your regular routine after sessions. Your provider will let you know how long your sessions will last and how many are recommended prior to the start of your treatment.
Many patients with depression also experience memory loss. This may manifest as confusion, forgetfulness, or difficulty completing tasks and can lead to feelings of overwhelm.
Brain scans have found differences between patients with depression and those who do not have it. This may explain depression symptoms such as memory issues and concentration struggles. Stress and anxiety, often found in patients with depression, can also increase memory loss.
While other treatments, such as electroshock therapy, have been linked to memory loss, multiple studies have linked transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy to increased brain performance and improved memory in adults. Research has also found that NeuroStar TMS is linked to an increase of new cells in the hippocampus, which can help with memory.
Your provider at Synergy Strive will help you understand the possible side effects of NeuroStar TMS therapy. Common side effects of this treatment include:
Some side effects, such as headache and scalp discomfort, typically ease after several sessions.
Less common side effects of NeuroStar TMS include mania and seizures. Though rare, it is important to remain informed of these side effects. Our team is here to explain every step of the process, including what you may experience after or in between treatment sessions, and your provider will address any concerns you may have about memory issues with TMS therapy.
It is natural to wonder, “Does TMS cause memory loss?” when considering this treatment. NeuroStar TMS therapy does not cause memory issues and has been linked to improved brain activity. If you are dealing with treatment resistant depression, NeuroStar TMS therapy may be a helpful treatment.
At Synergy Strive, we are dedicated to helping patients fully engage with their daily life and manage their depression symptoms. Call us today so we can address your questions or concerns. We want to empower you to feel confident about your care. Each patient’s needs are unique, and we will help you find the treatment that will work best for you.
