Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): How it works, uses, and side effects

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is one of psychiatry’s most effective tools for severe depression and mania. Here’s how it works — and what you should know (Image: Pexels)

Electroconvulsive therapy is a type of treatment used most often in sever psychiatric disorders. It involves the induction of controlled seizures using electrical stimulation, and is commonly done under general anaesthesia. Muscle relaxants may also be given in such cases. It can function as a life-saving procedure in those who have suicidal depression.

The electroconvulsive therapy is not done for all psychiatric disorders, it is only indicated in cases like severe depression, manic episodes that are unresponsive to medication, and schizophrenia that has prominent features of catatonia. It may also be done when there exists rapid deterioration of the affected person’s condition, or when medications cannot be administered due to some contraindications (like in pregnancy).

ECT may be done bilaterally or unilaterally, but it has been found that the cognitive side effects are more in the bilateral type, even though it is more efficient.

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Before undergoing electroconvulsive therapy, an assessment is made, and various parameters are checked. These include a thorough psychiatric history and detailed medical examination, along with a pre-anaesthetic checkup. Laboratory investigations and electrocardiography are also performed.

Not only that, the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system is evaluated, and dental and airway assessment is performed, as general anaesthesia needs to be administered.

An ECT may usually be given two to three times in a week, and around six to twelve sessions may be required depending upon the severity of symptoms. This method has been found to be one of the most effective treatments in psychiatry, especially for severe depression. It may aid in providing relief to the affected person, especially those with suicidal thoughts.

Side -effects are often short-termed. And include confusion and some amount of disorientation. The person may have some difficulty in paying attention post the treatment. Retrograde amnesia, especially for autobiographical memory (recollection of one’s own life experiences), may be observed in some cases.

Headaches, myalgia, nausea and tachycardia can be experienced after electroconvulsive therapy. It is necessary to monitor cardiovascular functioning in people in the elderly age group.

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Post therapy, relapse rates can be become high if therapy is not continued. The approach may include, using antidepressants and mood stabilisers. The healthcare professionals recommend psychotherapy as well. An informed consent is must, as the affected person’s relatives need to be informed of all the pros and the cons before beginning this procedure. When combined with medicines and psychosocial treatment, ECT can show significant improvement.FAQs on Electroconvulsive Therapy:

1. What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

ECT is a medical treatment primarily used for severe psychiatric disorders that involves inducing controlled seizures through electrical stimulation.

2. When is ECT recommended?

ECT is recommended for severe depression, manic episodes unresponsive to medication, and schizophrenia with catatonic features. It may also be used when rapid deterioration occurs or medications are contraindicated.

3. How often are ECT sessions conducted?

ECT sessions are usually conducted two to three times a week, with a total of six to twelve sessions depending on the severity of symptoms.

4. What are the common side effects of ECT?

Common side effects include confusion, disorientation, difficulty paying attention, retrograde amnesia, headaches, myalgia, nausea, and tachycardia.

5. What assessments are done before ECT?

A comprehensive assessment including psychiatric history, medical examination, pre-anaesthetic checkup, laboratory investigations, electrocardiography, and evaluations of cardiovascular, dental, and airway functions.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.