Electroconvulsive therapy--or ECT--is a procedure that uses small electrical currents that pass through the brain.
It can treat problems such as depression or other conditions that may affect the brain.
It's most often used for people who have severe depression, when other treatments haven't worked.
Experts aren't sure exactly how ECT works.
It seems to change brain chemistry, similar to how medicines work, and may have other effects in the brain.
It may seem scary at first, but keep in mind that ECT is safe and gentle and it can have a lot of benefits for people who haven't been helped by other treatments.
Before the procedure, you'll get medicine to help you relax and go to sleep.
Your care team puts small pads--or electrodes--on your head.
While you're asleep, small, brief currents of electricity are sent to your brain.
You won't feel this or remember it.
When you wake up, usually about 5 to 10 minutes after the procedure, you may have a few side effects, such as confusion, nausea, a headache, or jaw pain.
These usually go away after a few hours.
You might notice some short-term memory loss which should get better within several weeks.
After the treatment, you'll be able to do your usual activities.
Your care team can let you know when it's okay to drive.
ECT is usually done several times over a few weeks.
You may get 2 or 3 treatments a week at first, depending on your symptoms and how well the treatment is working.
Medicines and counseling are often used along with ECT.
If you're nervous about getting ECT, remember that it doesn't hurt and you won't remember it.
And it may help you get relief from your symptoms.
