It can be quite unnerving when we start to experience memory loss as we get older or as a side effect of an underlying mental health disorder. We may be concerned we are developing dementia and become frustrated because we cannot recall past events. Fortunately, TMS for memory loss might be able to help with your memory problems and also help slow the profession of cognitive conditions like dementia.ย
What Is TMS?
TMS is a drug-free, FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that is safe and effective. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) has been used to treat several types of mental health disorders effectively.ย Through this use, it has been discovered that TMS can be equally beneficial when treating neurological and cognitive disorders and slowing their progression. As a result, individuals who suffer from mild cognitive dysfunction or those who suffer from mild dementia can benefit from TMS treatments.ย
Unlike other types of brain stimulation therapies for memory loss, TMS does not require any sedation. You can relax and read a book, knit, do a crossword, or work remotely while you receive your TMS treatment. Best of all, you can drive yourself to and from your TMS treatments.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS stimulates specific areas of the brain responsible for memory using gentle magnetic pulses. The magnetic pulses trigger nerve cells in the brain to help improve memory functioning. Essentially, TMS for memory loss is like physical therapy for the memory centers of the brain. Most people report that the magnetic pulsations feel like gentle tapping on the head.ย
How Does TMS Help?
People who have received TMS for memory loss along with cognitive exercises have reported that they notice it is easier for them to remember and recall past events. By stimulating the memory centers of the brain, the neural networks responsible for memory are strengthened.
TMS treatments help prolong memory retention and recollection while slowing the effects of age-related cognitive memory loss problems, including dementia and Alzheimer’s. Many people report the effects of TMS are noticeable after a single treatment. Additionally, those receiving ongoing TMS treatment and continuing to do their cognitive exercises have noticed longer improvements and slower decline of memory loss problems.ย
How Long Are TMS for Memory Loss Treatments?
The treatment time for TMS is about 20 to 25 minutes per session. During the initial first few weeks, it is recommended to receive between 4 and 5 sessions each week. At the end of the two-week period, you are re-evaluated to determine the frequency of sessions for the coming weeks.
Ideally, you will want to undergo at least 25 treatment sessions to help your memory loss. After the initial 25 treatment sessions, you should continue receiving TMS treatments based on a frequency that best suits your needs and cognitive functioning and memory loss concerns.
How Do I Get Started with TMS for Memory Loss Treatments?
Your path to TMS treatments begins with a free initial consultation to determine whether TMS is right for you. During the consultation, your medical history and memory problem symptoms are reviewed. By gaining an understanding of what memory loss you are experiencing, it allows us to create a customized treatment plan for you.
If you decide to proceed with TMS treatments, your first treatment appointment is scheduled. At this appointment, a cognitive evaluation is performed to establish a baseline. You will also undergo a motor threshold test, which helps us determine the appropriate magnetic pulse strength for you.
During the TMS treatment portion for this appointment and future TMS sessions, you may read, listen to music, watch TV, or close your eyes and relax. At the end of the treatment, your psychiatrist will perform another cognitive evaluation. Post-treatment evaluations help us determine improvements to your memory and how well memory loss problems are being slowed or halted.ย ย
Ongoing TMS for Memory Loss Treatments
Once you have finished your initial treatment period, it is essential to continue to monitor your cognitive functioning. It is also highly encouraged to continue doing your cognitive exercises as prescribed by our psychiatrist.ย They will remain in touch with you to determine how you feel your memory loss condition is fairing. If you start to notice symptoms returning, follow-up care and another round of TMS treatments could be recommended.ย
In certain situations, some people find that ongoing “maintenance” care is a better approach. Therefore, they will continue to receive weekly, biweekly, or monthly TMS treatments for their memory loss condition.
Are There Any Side Effects of TMS Treatments?
The most common side effect people experience is mild scalp discomfort during treatment and a mild itchy scalp after treatment. However, these minor and temporary side effects often dissipate once people get used to the gentle magnetic pulses.ย
TMS for Memory Loss Treatments in Los Angeles, CA
If you are interested in learning more about TMS for memory loss treatments and whether these could benefit your cognitive functioning and memory loss problems, schedule your no-obligation consultation at Neuro Wellness Spa. With conveniently located psychiatry and therapy clinics accross Southern California, our team of experienced mental health experts can guide you toward the right treatment for you, whether its TMS therapy, psychiatry and medication management, or talk therapy, your first step to mental wellbeing starts here.