Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe, non-invasive treatment for depression and other mental health conditions, often used when other treatments are less effective. However, you need to understand how it works and what side effects of TMS to expect to better prepare for the procedure.
TMS is FDA-approved and backed by growing research, but while many expect common side effects like headaches or scalp discomfort, some may be surprised by less common physical and emotional reactions.
In this article, we will cover the full range of TMS side effects, from the expected to the uncommon and surprising, all while highlighting how this treatment can affect both the brain and body.
TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a procedure that uses a magnetic coil placed on the scalp to send gentle pulses that stimulate brain cells involved in mood and emotion. This treatment helps control conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and some types of chronic pain with each session lasting about 15 to 20 minutes.
The procedure is usually done five days a week for several weeks, does not require sedation or recovery time, and is especially useful for patients without improvements after using medication and other treatments.
Some of the most frequently reported tms treatment side effects include:
One of the most common side effects of TMS is scalp discomfort or mild headaches which occur because the magnetic pulses target nerves and muscles near the scalp, causing slight irritation or tension. The side effects are usually temporary, often lasting only during or shortly after a session and most patients find relief with over-the-counter pain medication or by adjusting the position of the coil during treatment.
Some patients experience a tingling, tapping, or warm sensation on the scalp during TMS sessions because of the magnetic pulses stimulating the nerves in that area. While this can feel unusual, it’s completely normal and typically fades with time as your body gets used to the treatment. But if patients feel any kind of discomfort, they can request the technician to adjust the coil or make small changes to the session to help reduce the sensation.
Some patients feel tired or lightheaded after a TMS session, which is usually caused by stimulating the brain areas that help regulate mood. However, these feelings are usually temporary and go away as your body adjusts to the treatment or you can always take a short rest after the session, and it should improve as you continue.
TMS is generally well-tolerated, but some patients experience side effects that are less common or more surprising. Here are a few examples:
Some patients notice changes in their sleep patterns after TMS treatment, such as insomnia or more vivid dreams, because the treatment stimulates areas of the brain that affect mood and sleep. The procedure can temporarily disrupt or even help regulate your circadian rhythms, which control your sleep-wake cycle. Furthermore, while these changes are usually short-term, many patients find that their sleep improves over time as their brain adjusts to the treatment.
Some patients undergoing TMS may experience sudden emotional releases, such as unexpected crying, laughter, or feelings of joy because the treatment helps "rewire" the brain’s emotional regulation centers, allowing for a more balanced emotional response. While these emotional shifts can be surprising, many patients view them as a positive sign of progress, which shows that the treatment is effectively helping restore emotional balance.
Some people notice changes in their senses during TMS treatment, such as increased sensitivity to sound, which occurs if the part of the brain that processes hearing (the auditory cortex) becomes more active from the stimulation. This effect is usually short-term and patients can use earplugs or avoid noisy places right after a session.
Another possible change is in taste perception whereby some patients report that food tastes different or that their taste preferences shift. This effects may result from the TMS affecting parts of the brain involved in processing sensory information, but the changes are usually mild and temporary, and often fade as the brain adjusts to the treatment.
After TMS sessions, some people feel more energized, focused, or motivated because the treatment activates parts of the brain that were less active, especially in people with depression. As these areas start working better, many patients notice a lift in their mood and energy, which leads to better daily habits and a boost in their well-being.
While TMS is generally safe, a few rare but serious side effects can happen. Here’s what to know:
TMS doesn’t just manage symptoms, but it can also lead to big improvements. Studies show that about 85% of patients feel better, and around 46% go into full remission, which means they recover from depression entirely.
Some people even report long-term mental wellness, with better mood, focus, and energy lasting well after treatment ends. While results vary from person to person, these outcomes show that TMS can truly change lives.
As much as you should be hopeful, however, you should also be realistic because TMS may not work for everyone, but for many, it offers a real chance at lasting relief.
TMS therapy is a good option for people with treatment-resistant depression, which means they have tried other treatments like medication or therapy without much success. It’s also helpful for those who can’t handle the side effects of antidepressants or prefer a non-drug option.
However, patients should talk to their doctor first before starting TMS, especially if they have epilepsy or a history of seizures, or metal implants in or near their head (like cochlear implants or metal plates), as the magnetic pulses may interfere with these devices.
If you're thinking about TMS, you should talk to a healthcare provider who can help you understand if it's right for you.
Need guidance? Contact Telapsychiatry today to learn more or schedule a TMS evaluation.
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