Botox, or botulinum toxin type A, is well known for cosmetic usage however, this specific treatment has also been authorized to be utilized for addressing chronic migraines. This treatment process is considered effective in stopping migrating nerve impulses that cause the headache thus decreasing the frequency and magnitude of migraine attacks.
Migraine is believed to be the multiplier product of genetic susceptibility and environmental stimuli that result in abnormal brain functioning. This activity influences the CNS, it results in severe headaches sometimes accompanied by nausea, photophobia, and vomiting.
Any Botox reduces the availability of neurotransmitters that are produced to facilitate pain signals. Interestingly, it is aimed at the inhibition of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine that triggers muscle contractions and pain sensation.
When it is utilized for the treatment of certain disorders of the head and neck region, Botox works to paralyze the nerve endings and stops the release of the respective chemicals that cause inflammation and pain.
One of the ways by which this interruption is beneficial is by decreasing the number of attacks for a migraine and in some instances results in a period of months where no attacks are felt.
The process of using Botox for migraines is relatively straightforward but requires several steps to ensure effectiveness:
The treatment process starts with a visit to a healthcare practitioner knowledgeable in providing Botox for migraine treatment.
In this visit, you will need to tell or explain your migraine history, how often they occur, and how the migraines affect your life. Your provider will determine whether you are a candidate for Botox.
Botox is usually used to treat migraines and injections are periodically given and could be given as often as every twelve weeks. Depending on the patient’s condition, it requires administering insulin injections in particular zones of the head, neck, and shoulder blades.
The injection sites that are also frequent are the forehead, temple, back of the head, and neck region. The procedure of the implantation itself is not very time-consuming and may range from 15 to 30 minutes on average.
There are no major side effects that come with the injections which means that there is little that one cannot do as soon as the injections are administered.
They are usually warned not to touch the treated areas, or massage them in any way, and to also avoid lying down for several hours. Many people go back to their day as usual, however, it is recommended to watch out for possible side effects.
As for chronic migraines, Botox has been successfully used to reduce not only the frequency but also the intensity of headaches. Clinical evidence shows that the results of utilizing Botox involve vast enhancements in patients as compared to those who were not treated.
An article published in the Journal of Headache and Pain shows that 50% of patient who were in a few sessions of treatment saw their migraine days per month cut down by half. The effectiveness of Botox depends from person to person.
Some patients may feel better right after the initial treatment while for others several sessions could be required before the patient feels much better. One must always remember that the expectations need to be realistic and, therefore, consult the concerned doctor and plan the treatment process.
While Botox is generally well-tolerated, it is not without potential side effects. These are usually mild and temporary but should be considered:
Some of the side effects reported include; soreness and swelling at the sites of injections, headache, and neck ache. Such side impacts are normally temporary and disappear few days after the use of the medicine.
Occasionally, some serious side effects are reported like muscle fatigue, swallowing problems, or allergies. However, some symptoms are considered rather severe side effects in case you notice them, be sure to consult your healthcare provider.
Botox for migraines is used only for chronic migraines which are termed as those people who have headaches for 15 days or more in a month and where each headache lasts for 4 hours or more.
It should not be taken for episodic migraine or for people who do not have these specifications. Also, Botox is a prescription medication, therefore, its utilization has to be controlled by a qualified doctor who is familiar with the treatment of migraines.