Getting Familiar with the Side Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation

Overview

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a commonly used surgical treatment for Parkinson's disease symptoms such as stiffness, slow movement, and tremors.

DBS will not cure the disease, but it may alleviate symptoms that current Parkinson's medication does not adequately treat. However, like every procedure, deep brain stimulation also has some complications related to it. In this article, we have discussed more of the same.

Understanding the procedure: Deep brain stimulation

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure that treats movement disorders associated with Parkinson's disease (PD), essential tremor, dystonia, and other neurological conditions with implanted electrodes and electrical stimulation.

When medications have become ineffective or if their side effects interfere with a person's daily activities, doctors may use DBS to treat movement disorders or neuropsychiatric conditions.

Why do you need to undergo a deep brain stimulation procedure?

Deep brain stimulation is a well-established treatment for people suffering from movement disorders like essential tremors, Parkinson's disease, and dystonia, as well as psychiatric disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder. The Food and Drug Administration has also approved its use to reduce seizures in patients with difficult-to-treat epilepsy.

This treatment is only for people whose symptoms are not controlled by medications.

Conditions treated by deep brain stimulation:

Researchers are also investigating whether DBS can help with other conditions.

The following conditions may benefit from DBS:

• Addictions
• Alzheimer's disease
• Anxiety
• Cluster headache
• Eating problems
• Schizophrenia
• Disorders of severe pain (especially pain that happens because of nerve or brain conditions, or pain from incurable diseases like cancer).
• Tourette's syndrome

It's important to remember that, while the conditions listed above may benefit from DBS, experts aren't sure. Years of research and clinical trials are usually required to determine whether a medical procedure like DBS is beneficial for conditions like these.

What are the complications associated with deep brain stimulation?

DBS is safe and effective in properly selected patients. There are risks and potential side effects, but they are generally minor and reversible.

Deep Brain Stimulation Risks could include:

• 1% chance of brain hemorrhage, including stroke
• Infection
• Error in the device
• Ineffectiveness for certain symptoms
• Headache
• Deterioration in a mental or emotional state

Side effects of stimulation may include:

• Tingling in the face or limbs for a short period of time.
• A sensation of muscle pulling
• Speech or vision issues
• Loss of equilibrium

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of deep brain stimulation treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your treatment and will be physically present with you even before it begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

Our team is dedicated to offering the highest quality health care and services to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your medical tour.