electroconvulsión

Electroconvulsive therapy, commonly known as ECT, is a medical treatment most often used for severe cases of depression that have not responded to other treatments. It is also used for mania and catatonia, which can occur with bipolar disorder, and sometimes for schizophrenia. During ECT, a patient is given general anesthesia and a muscle relaxant. Then, small electrodes are placed on the scalp. A carefully controlled electrical current is passed between the electrodes, which causes a brief, generalized seizure in the brain. The seizure typically lasts less than a minute. The patient is closely monitored throughout the procedure.

The exact mechanism by which ECT works is not fully understood, but it is believed to cause changes in brain chemistry that can quickly relieve symptoms of certain mental health conditions. ECT is usually administered in a series of treatments, typically two to three times a week for several weeks. While ECT can be highly effective, potential side effects include headache, nausea, confusion, and memory loss, which can be temporary or, in some cases, long-lasting. The decision to use ECT is made by a psychiatrist and a patient, weighing the potential benefits against the risks. It is considered a safe and effective treatment when administered by trained medical professionals.