A Psychiatrist’s Breakdown of TMS Therapy Side Effects

If you’ve been searching for options that go beyond medication alone, you’ve probably heard of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS therapy. Many people learn about it through a friend, an article online, or a conversation with their psychiatrist. And while learning about new treatment paths can feel encouraging, it’s completely normal to want clear, straightforward information—especially about possible side effects—before you move forward.

As a mental health provider, one of the questions I hear most often is: What does TMS feel like, and what should I expect?

People don’t want medical jargon; they want reassurance, transparency, and guidance they can trust. This guide aims to give you just that. Let’s walk through the common side effects of TMS therapy, why they occur, and what most patients actually experience. By the end, you’ll have a grounded understanding of TMS and why so many individuals find the treatment manageable, safe, and worth exploring.

• What TMS Therapy Is (and Isn’t)
  
  Before looking at side effects, it helps to know what TMS is at its core. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s noninvasive, requires no anesthesia, and you remain awake and comfortable throughout the session.
  
  For individuals already navigating psychiatric care, this can feel like a welcome option—something that targets the brain directly without affecting the rest of the body. This is one of the biggest reasons people explore TMS, especially when medications haven’t brought the relief they hoped for.
  
  Because TMS isn’t systemic, its side effects tend to be mild and short-lived. Still, understanding what may happen during treatment helps set healthy expectations.
  
• Common Side Effects of TMS Therapy
  
  Most side effects of TMS are mild and temporary. Many fade as the brain adjusts to the stimulation.
  
  Below are the experiences most patients ask about.
  
• Scalp Discomfort or Tingling
  
  This is the most frequently mentioned sensation. The magnetic pulses produce a rhythmic tapping sensation on the scalp. Some describe it as tapping with a pen, applying gentle pressure, or making a light clicking sound.
  
  Why It Happens:
  
  The pulses activate nerve cells in a targeted brain area. Because the coil rests on the scalp, the sensation is noticeable.
  
  Common Descriptions:
  
• Tapping
• Tingling
• Mild pressure
• Temporary sensitivity
  
  How Long Does It Last:
  
  Usually only during the session. It often lessens within the first week of treatment.
  
  How It’s Managed:
  
  Your technician can adjust the placement or intensity to improve comfort. Open communication helps fine-tune your experience.
  
• Mild Headaches After Sessions
  
  Headaches can happen, especially in the first few sessions, but they’re usually mild.
  
  Why They Happen:
  
  Nearby muscles may tense in response to early stimulation, similar to the sensation of eye strain or jaw tightness.
  
  Typical Patient Feedback:
  
• Mild tension behind the eyes
• A light ache that fades within an hour or two
  
  How to Manage It:
  
  Over-the-counter pain relievers often help. Staying hydrated before and after treatment can also reduce discomfort.
  
• Facial or Jaw Muscle Twitching
  
  Small, involuntary muscle movements can occur during stimulation.
  
  Why It Happens:
  
  The magnetic pulses may activate nearby motor nerves.
  
  What to Expect:
  
  These movements stop immediately when the pulses stop. Most people stop noticing them within a few sessions.
  
• Lightheadedness After Treatment
  
  Some patients may feel briefly lightheaded after their initial sessions.
  
  Why It Happens:
  
  Your brain is adjusting to the stimulation. This is more common in individuals who experience anxiety during their initial visits.
  
  What Helps:
  
  
  • Slow breathing after treatment
  • Sitting for a moment before standing
  • Eating beforehand
  • Lightheadedness typically fades quickly.
    
• Less Common Side Effects
  
  These effects are less commonly reported but still worth mentioning.
  
• Sleep Pattern Changes
  
  Some patients notice a shift in sleep habits, feeling slightly more alert or more tired than usual.
  
  Why It Happens:
  
  TMS affects brain regions tied to mood and energy.
  
• What Usually Happens Over Time:
  
  Sleep stabilizes as treatment continues. Many people eventually report improved rest as their symptoms improve through depression treatment.
  
• Mood Sensitivity During Early Sessions
  
  A small group of patients notices mild mood shifts at the start of treatment.
  
  Common Experiences:
  
  
  • Mild irritability
  • Feeling more emotionally sensitive
  • Slight heaviness
    
• Why It’s Not Alarming:
  
  These effects are temporary and often mean the treatment is actively stimulating the intended areas of the brain.
  
• Very Rare Side Effects
  
  Although rare, psychiatrists make sure patients understand even the least common risks.
  
• Seizures (Extremely Rare)
  
  The risk of a seizure during TMS is extremely low, similar to or lower than many antidepressant medications.
  
  Prevention:
  
  Clinics carefully screen patients and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks.
  
• Hearing Sensitivity
  
  The TMS machine makes clicking sounds, so ear protection is always used. With proper protection, hearing issues are very uncommon.
  
• Why TMS Is Considered Well-Tolerated
  
  One major advantage of TMS is that it does not affect the whole body. This sets it apart from medication, which can influence appetite, weight, energy levels, and hormonal balance.
  
  Patients often appreciate that TMS:
  
  
  • Requires no sedation
  • Allows you to return to daily activities immediately
  • Does not cause memory problems
  • Does not interact with medications
  • Has temporary and manageable side effects
    
    For many, this becomes a meaningful addition to their overall mental health services plan.
    
• What Your Psychiatrist Wants You to Know
  
  Choosing a treatment is a personal decision, and your comfort matters. Psychiatrists encourage patients to ask questions, share concerns, and speak openly about their experiences during sessions.
  
  Here’s what most mental health providers emphasize:
  
  
  • TMS side effects are usually mild
  • The team can adjust stimulation for comfort
  • Early sensations often fade as treatment continues
  • Many people begin feeling improvement even before completing their treatment course
    
    If you’re exploring TMS because medication hasn’t brought enough relief, knowing what to expect can help you make a confident decision.
    
• Take the Next Step with Us
  
  If you’re curious whether TMS could help you or someone in your life, now is a meaningful time to find out. South Boston TMS offers supportive guidance, a skilled treatment team, and a warm environment where your questions are always welcome. Reach out today and see how a personalized treatment plan could help you feel more like yourself again—one step at a time.

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