Depression and OCD can be hard to treat. Some people try one or two medicines and still do not feel better. For such people, doctors sometimes talk about TMS. Interest in TMS treatment in India is growing, but many people still do not know what it is. This guide explains TMS in simple words: how it works, who may be eligible, and what the treatment is like.
What is TMS?
TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It is a treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain. When it is given in repeated sessions, it is often called rTMS (repetitive TMS).
TMS is non-invasive. This means:
- No surgery
- No cuts or injections
- No anaesthesia (you stay awake)
- No medicine goes into your body through the treatment
How does TMS work?
A small magnetic coil is placed on your head, near a chosen area of the brain. The coil sends short magnetic pulses. These pass through the skull and affect nerve cells in that area.
In depression, some brain areas that control mood are less active. TMS is thought to help these areas work better over repeated sessions. Doctors are still studying exactly how it works, but it has been researched for many years.
Which conditions is TMS used for?
TMS is mostly used for:
- Treatment-resistant depression: Depression that has not improved enough with medicines. This is the best-studied use.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repeated unwanted thoughts and habits.
TMS is also studied for other problems, such as panic disorder, migraine and tic disorders. The strength of proof is different for each one. Your psychiatrist can tell you what is known for your condition.
Who may be eligible for TMS?
TMS may be considered if you:
- Have tried medicines and did not get enough relief
- Had side effects from medicines that were hard to handle
- Want an option that does not add another medicine
The final decision is made by a psychiatrist after a full check-up. TMS is not a first step for everyone. It is not a “default add-on” for every patient.
Who should not have TMS?
TMS uses a strong magnet, so it is not safe for everyone. Tell your doctor if you have:
- Metal in or near your head, such as metal implants, clips or fragments (dental fillings are usually fine)
- A cochlear implant
- A pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
- A history of seizures or epilepsy
- Any serious medical illness
Also tell the doctor about all medicines you take, since some can affect seizure risk. Being honest about your history helps keep you safe.
What is a TMS session like?
Many people feel nervous before the first session. Here is what usually happens:
- Check-up first. The doctor reviews your history, medicines and diagnosis.
- Setting up. You sit in a comfortable chair. You stay awake. Earplugs are often given because the machine makes a clicking sound.
- Finding the spot. The doctor places the coil on your head and sets the right strength for you.
- Treatment. Pulses are given in short bursts. You feel a tapping on the scalp.
- After. You can go back to your normal day. You do not need to be admitted.
The time for one session depends on the method used. It can be from a few minutes to around an hour. A full course is usually given on many days over several weeks. Your doctor will plan this for you.
What are the side effects of TMS?
TMS is generally well tolerated, but side effects can happen. The common ones are mild and usually go away:
- Headache
- Scalp discomfort or tapping pain at the spot
- Twitching of the face muscles during the session
- Light-headedness
A seizure is a rare but serious risk. This is one reason a proper check-up before TMS is important. Your doctor will explain the risks before starting.
Does TMS work for everyone?
No. Some people improve a lot, some a little, and some not much. Nobody can promise a result. Doctors review your progress during the course and decide the next step.
TMS is often used along with other care, such as medicines or therapy. It is not meant to replace everything else.
TMS and tDCS: what is the difference?
You may also hear about tDCS (transcranial Direct Current Stimulation). Both are non-invasive brain stimulation methods, but they work differently.
- TMS uses magnetic pulses through a coil.
- tDCS uses a weak, steady electric current through small pads on the scalp.
Your psychiatrist can tell you which one, if any, suits your condition.
What about the cost?
The cost is different at each centre. It depends on the number of sessions, the machine, and the plan your doctor makes. There is no single fixed price. It is fine to ask the clinic for a clear written estimate before you decide.
Questions to ask before starting TMS
- Why do you think TMS suits my case?
- What is the evidence for my condition?
- How many sessions will I need?
- What are the risks for me?
- What will happen if I do not respond?
- Do I need to keep taking my medicines?
How to choose a TMS provider
- Check that a qualified psychiatrist does the evaluation and plans the treatment.
- Ask whether you get a full assessment first.
- Ask what equipment the centre uses, and who runs the sessions.
- Look for honest talk about limits and side effects.
- Be careful if anyone promises a sure cure.
Where does the evaluation fit in?
At Healthy Minds India in Patna, Dr. Saurabh Kumar starts with a full psychiatric evaluation. He looks at your past treatment, current medicines and diagnosis before thinking about brain stimulation. The clinic has its own rTMS and tDCS equipment. Dr. Kumar completed his MD in Psychiatry at AIIMS, New Delhi, and his research work includes rTMS and interventional psychiatry.
To read more about TMS treatment in India, visit the clinic’s transcranial magnetic stimulation page.
