Shock Therapy
Shock therapy is also called electroshock therapy. Patients are put under anesthesia, and small electric currents are sent through their body. It causes the patient to have a small stroke and is believed to change the brain function and reset the body. It is often used to treat certain types of mental disorders.
Why a Person May Need Shock Therapy
People who may need or benefit from shock therapy are those who have severe mental illness. It is not used to treat mild cases and is considered an aggressive treatment option. It is more successful at treating certain disorders than others. Some common mental health problems that shock therapy can treat include:
- Severe depression
- Depression that doesn’t improve with medication
- Severe mania
- Catatonia
- Agitation
Preparing for Shock Therapy
Not all patients can tolerate shock therapy. If a patient is not healthy or too weak, it can do much more harm than good. Doctors will make sure patients are properly prepared for the procedure before they set up a session of shock therapy. They need to conduct a complete health exam. Other ways doctors may help patients prepare for shock therapy include:
- Medical history
- Complete physical exam
- Psychiatric assessment
- Basic blood tests
- Electrocardiogram
- Informing the patient of risks
During the Shock Therapy Procedure
During the procedure, the patient will put on a gown and sit on a medical table. He or she will be given another physical exam and a dose of anesthesia. The patient is given an IV so that fluids and medication can be provided during the procedure if necessary. The doctor will place electrodes on the side of the patient’s head and give the patient a short dose of electric. The electric shock flows through the body. Some patients will receive more than one dose of electric shock in one session.
Shock Therapy Recovery
Most people recover quickly from shock therapy. Once the anesthesia wears off, they can go about their daily lives as normal. They shouldn’t drive or operate heavy machinery for a few days and should also be monitored by hospital staff or a family member. Some people do experience complications after shock therapy.
Shock Therapy Complications
Complications are rare, but they can be serious. Some people cannot tolerate shock therapy as well as others. Patients who experience complications should inform a doctor. If complications become severe, it may be necessary to go to the emergency room. Common complications include:
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Physical side effects
- Heart problems
- Blood pressure problems
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Loss of balance
Shock Therapy Results
Most people notice results just a short time after the procedure is complete. Their loved one and doctors will see results too. The results may be permanent or short-lived. Some people require sessions on a regular basis. Not everyone gets the results they want from shock therapy. If there is no change or progress after a few sessions, doctors may look for alternative treatments or decide that the benefits are not worth the risks.
