Categories: Psychiatry

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.

This post was last modified on July 24, 2023 10:30 am

Recent Posts

How to Prepare for Spider Vein Treatment in San Antonio

Spider veins are a common cosmetic concern for many people, causing small, visible veins to appear just beneath the surface… Read More

4 weeks ago

Streamlining Communication in Hospitals with Digital Signage Solutions

Digital Signage for Hospitals: Streamlining Communication in Hospitals SEO description: The use of digital signage for hospitals transforms the way… Read More

4 weeks ago

The Importance of Having an Oxygen Cylinder

Oxygen is the most critical element for human survival, and in scenarios where oxygen levels are compromised, having access to… Read More

2 months ago

Buy Pharmaqo Steroids at Roidocean: Premium Quality for Serious Athletes

In the world of competitive sports and bodybuilding, serious athletes are always on the lookout for reliable, high-quality supplements to… Read More

2 months ago

The Long-Term Effects of Car Accident Injuries: A Comprehensive Guide

Car accidents can change lives, causing long-term injuries that affect physical health, finances, and emotional well-being. Recognizing these effects is… Read More

2 months ago

Traumatic Brain Injury: A Life-Altering Consequence of Negligence

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious condition that can result from various forms of negligence, such as car accidents,… Read More

3 months ago

Staying Healthy on a Budget

It sucks to be on a tight budget. You have to pick and choose what you buy at the grocery… Read More

3 months ago

Wake-up Call: Why Women are More Likely to Suffer from Insomnia

We’ve all laid in bed tossing and turning, not being able to sleep. But what if this is happening to… Read More

3 months ago

Faith-Based Addiction Treatment: Path to Recovery Rooted in Spiritual Healing

Addiction can profoundly impact every aspect of an individual’s life, from their physical health to their relationships, career, and spiritual… Read More

3 months ago

Why Early Intervention is Key for Teenage Mental Health Issues

The mental health landscape for teenagers is increasingly concerning. Adolescence is a period fraught with changes—physically, emotionally, and socially—that can… Read More

3 months ago