If you are considering NeuroStar, it is natural to ask about the most common side effect of TMS and how it might affect your day. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel more manageable from the very first visit. We want you to know what is typical, what is rare, and how we support comfort throughout care.
In practical terms, the most common side effect of TMS is temporary scalp discomfort or a mild headache near the treatment site during or shortly after a session. These sensations are usually well tolerated and tend to ease as you continue TMS therapy. At Chrysalis Psychiatry, our providers explain every step before treatment begins and check in regularly to tailor settings to your comfort.
NeuroStar TMS uses focused magnetic pulses, similar to MRI technology, to stimulate a mood-related area of the brain through the scalp. This targeted activity can create a tapping sensation at the coil site, which is why tenderness or a brief headache is the most common side effect. Because this is a non-invasive approach, nothing penetrates the skin and there is no anesthesia or surgery involved.
Many of our patients in Albuquerque find that discomfort fades after their first several sessions. As a form of transcranial magnetic stimulation, NeuroStar allows your provider to adjust pulse intensity and positioning, helping you stay within a comfortable range while maintaining the treatment plan.
During a typical 19-minute session, you may notice rhythmic tapping on the scalp where the coil rests. Afterward, some people report mild soreness or a short-lived headache that responds to standard over-the-counter options discussed with their provider. Most sensations resolve the same day. As your course continues, this NeuroStar TMS treatment effect often diminishes as you acclimate.
Sessions are performed on weekdays for about seven weeks. Results tend to start being noticeable around four to six weeks, so staying consistent is important. If tenderness is distracting, we can make small, real-time adjustments to improve your experience while keeping your treatment on track.
Your first visit includes careful “mapping” to locate the optimal treatment spot and determine a personalized dose. From there, we start at a tolerable level and can gradually increase to your prescribed settings. We provide ear protection, coach you on body positioning, and check in frequently. Our team schedules sessions at predictable times to simplify transportation and routines.
Safety remains central, and NeuroStar carries a moderate risk profile. While scalp discomfort and headache are common and temporary, seizure is a rare risk; people with certain neurological conditions, like epilepsy, may be ineligible. We review your medical history, medications, and devices to ensure NeuroStar TMS is appropriate for you.
If you are weighing the most common side effect of TMS, we are here to walk you through what to expect and how we keep you comfortable. Our providers offer a thoughtful evaluation, adjust the plan to your needs, and answer questions about coverage and scheduling. To learn whether TMS therapy fits your goals, contact Chrysalis Psychiatry to schedule a consultation.
