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Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffTranscranial magnetic stimulation is the least invasive of the brain-stimulation procedures used for depression. It requires no surgery or implantation of electrodes or nerve stimulators. While it's considered generally safe, it's not without some risks.
Common side effects
Common side effects and adverse health problems associated with transcranial magnetic stimulation include, but may not be limited to:
- Headache
- Scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation
- Tingling, spasms or twitching of facial muscles
- Lightheadedness
- Discomfort from noise during treatment
Uncommon side effects
In rare cases, transcranial magnetic stimulation may also cause more-serious side effects, including:
- Seizure
- Mania
- Hearing problems
Long-term effects unknown
Because transcranial magnetic stimulation involves changes in brain function, unknown long-term adverse health effects are possible. Some studies have shown structural changes in the brain after transcranial magnetic stimulation. The significance of these changes isn't yet known. Also, the long-term effects of exposure to the strong electromagnetic fields involved remain unknown.
