Chronic depression is a common condition. Sometimes, conventional medications for chronic depression treatment may not be effective with some people. Luckily, electric shock therapy has shown to benefit treatment for chronic depression.
Recently, electric shock therapy (EST) has shown to benefit chronic depression treatment when other forms of depression treatments have been unsuccessful, such as antidepressant medications. This new use of treatment has shown to benefit a wide range of people with few side effects. Side effects of this treatment are usually short term and do not leave any lasting effects. There are other treatments for depression besides EST as well.
Who Can EST Benefit?
Electric shock therapy can benefit many people. Not only can it benefit people that have had no luck with antidepressants, but people suffering from suicidal thoughts as well. This treatment has shown to be effective in treating elderly people that are suffering from chronic depression. This treatment is safe for pregnant women as well. Patients with heart conditions can use this treatment for depression. Certain young patients may be able to use EST for depression treatment.
How is EST Preformed?
EST for depression is a relatively simple procedure. Patients are given a mild anesthetic before the procedure. A physician will pass small amounts of electrical currents through the brain, which will cause a small seizure for about 40 seconds. Treatments usually occur in 6 treatment session, which takes place every 2 to 5 days. More treatments may be necessary and will become further apart.
What are the Side Effects of EST Treatment?
There are side effects of EST treatment but they usually go away quickly and are not very severe. The worst side effects include temporary short term memory lapse and temporary confusion. Muscle soreness has been reported. A patient that has undergone EST treatment may experience headaches and heart disturbances. The drug Naloxone is often administered before the procedure to lessen the occurrence of side effects. There appears to be no risk of cell damage from EST treatments.
Other Options for Depression
There are many other forms of depression treatments available besides antidepressants and EST. Acupuncture and sleep deprivation has shown to be effective as well. It is important to discuss with a health professional before choosing a treatment option. A health professional can help choose which treatment may be right for your case of depression. Some treatments options may be combined with others.
References:
“Treatments for Depression” April 1, 2009 www.healthcentral.com
“Electric Shock Treatment” December 9, 2001 www.ect.org
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