Posted by Chris A. on June 20, 2001, at 11:00:59
In reply to Re: Help! ECT has been recommended, posted by manowar on June 20, 2001, at 10:37:33
Gerry,
There are lots of meds out there to try, but ECT is generally very effective in the short term.
The main side effects are cognitive impairment, especially experienced as memory loss. As a result of my experience I would suggest requesting comprehensive neuropsych testing prior to proceeding. Why? Because any previous damage to the brain predicts a greater risk of these side effects. For example, if it is apparent that someone already has cognitive impairment that follows the pattern commonly found in epilepsy or head injury, then ECT is not the best choice.
Those have received ECT also tend to relapse, so continuation with meds afterwards is recommended to maintain any benefit.
It is scary to contemplate and it is normal to be anxious about it. I found the procedure to be a piece of cake. The long term side effects have been another matter. I had about fifty treatments over the course of 24 years, both bilateral and unilateral.
I hope this helps and that you find relief very soon.Blessings,
Chris A.
poster:Chris A.
thread:67216
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010618/msgs/67225.html