Botox Offers Migraine Patients Much-needed Relief
Some Individuals may believe that a migraine is just a really bad headache. However, men and women that suffer from this neurological condition know first-hand that is much more serious and incapacitating.
Migraine headaches can vary from patient to patient, but usually involve a severe throbbing recurring pain on one or both sides of the head, visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sensitivity to sound, light, touch and smell, and tingling or numbness in the extremities or face.
With migraine attacks lasting between 4 and 72 hours, they can be extremely debilitating.
Many patients do not experience satisfactory relief from oral medications and are turning to Botox to combat their symptoms before they start.
Botox is an injectable product that can ease the pain and discomfort of migraine headache in a 20-minute appointment.
Heres what you need to know before considering this treatment.
HOW CAN BOTOX TREAT MIGRAINE HEADACHES?
While its most often identified for its ability to smooth wrinkles and refresh a patients appearance, Botox Cosmetic is also FDA-approved for a number of medical conditions.
In 2010, the FDA cleared Botox for the treatment of chronic migraines.
When injected around pain fibers in the head and neck, Botox works by blocking nerve signals that are responsible for activation of pain networks in the brain.
The result is tremendous relief and improved functioning for migraine sufferers.
WHOS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR TREATMENT?
Botox is indicated for healthy adults over the age of 18. Its also recommended for patients that have 15 or more headache days per month.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN TREATING MIGRAINES WITH BOTOX?
First of all, its important that patients seek a qualified Botox injector that routinely performs this treatment for migraine headaches.
During the procedure, a very small needle is used to inject Botox in shallow muscles under the skin.
In most cases, patients can anticipate approximately 31 injections in 7 key areas of the head and neck.
HOW LONG DO EFFECTS LAST?
Botox can inhibit migraine headaches for 10-12 weeks. After a second treatment, the number of headache days can decrease up to 50%.
For additional information on Botox for treatment of migraines, please call our office today to schedule an appointment.