We’ve touched upon the subject of Botox and how it benefits some disorders, particularly people looking for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments at the middle stages of life. However, advancements in treatments and current medical research have proven Botox to be an effective treatment for people suffering from chronic migraines.
Before we kick-start a conversation about the benefits of Botulinum toxin on this disease, it’s important to note that not everyone qualifies for receiving Botox as a treatment for migraines. In this article, Zap Laser Center will discuss how botox for chronic migraines works, who may require it, and its side effects.
What Are Migraines?
According to the American Headache Society, a migraine is a complex nervous system disease. This affliction causes intense, throbbing headaches that often occur on one side and come with other symptoms like light and sound sensitivity, nausea, brain fog, and dizziness. This intense headache can last from one to three days (or more). It’s disabling and has no cure, affecting 39 million people in the United States alone. It’s present in about 1 in 4 households and affects 1 billion people worldwide.
What causes migraines?
The root causes of migraines remain unclear. It’s theorized that migraines result from abnormal brain activity that affects nerve signals, chemicals, and blood flow in the brain. They are three times more common in women than men and usually come with a family history in about 70-80% of cases.
Over time, it’s been proven that some people have migraine “triggers” or specific circumstances that might increase their chance of developing a migraine. These triggers can be any of the following:
- Dietary triggers like skipping meals and specific foods such as chocolate, alcoholic beverages, bananas, avocados, certain types of beans, certain types of fatty cheese, cookies, cakes, high-sodium meals, MSG, and others.
- Changes in sleeping patterns, like oversleeping or not sleeping enough.
- Environmental triggers like weather changes, bright lights, certain odors, pollution, and smog, among others.
- Stress, anxiety, tension, shock, depression, and excitement.
- Eye strain, like wearing the wrong prescription glasses.
- Physical activity and overexertion.
- Low blood sugar.
- Caffeine.
- Hormonal changes, like starting or ending your period.
- Some medications like contraceptives and sleeping pills.
How does botox for chronic migraines help?
Though doctors and researchers are yet to comprehend the mechanism that causes migraines, it is known that brain overactivity is the primary cause of this disease. When exposed to a “trigger,” the brain releases overactive electrical activity directly to your nervous system, provoking the onslaught of pain that patients experience. So, how does Botox come into play?
Botulinum toxin attaches itself to the nerve endings and blocks electrical signals from stimulating them. It also prevents the release of other chemicals that might be involved in migraine development and modifies the release of certain neurotransmitters responsible for transmitting pain sensations. The type of Botox used to treat this condition is the same kind used by dermatologists to reduce facial wrinkles.
Who Can Use Botox as a Migraine Treatment?
In 2010, Botox was approved for migraine treatment for people with a history of migraine headaches, 15 or more days of the month, that last 4 hours a day or more. It’s not recommended for people who respond to other alternative treatments or only have episodic migraines.
What are the benefits of botox for the treatment of chronic migraines?
- Reduces the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Greatly improves the quality of your life.
- There is no recovery time required.
- It’s a safe and effective treatment option.
Possible side effects
Like any medication, Botox does carry some risks. It is FDA-approved and considered safe, but some of the most common side effects include:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site
- Headache
- Neck pain
- Temporary eyelid drooping
FAQs
How long do the effects of Botox last for chronic migraines?
- The effects of Botox can last anywhere from three to six months.
Is Botox for chronic migraines covered by insurance?
- Yes, most insurance plans cover Botox for chronic migraines if other treatments have not been successful.
Can anyone receive Botox for chronic migraines?
- No, Botox for chronic migraines is only recommended for individuals diagnosed with chronic migraines who have not found relief from other treatments.
Has your physician appointed Botox treatment for your migraines?
At Zap Laser Center, we know how debilitating chronic migraines can be. Botox is a safe, alternative treatment for migraines that have not responded to standard therapy, are prolonged, and are life-altering. Talking to your healthcare provider to consider the right treatment plan for your condition is the first step to a speedy recovery. If you’re looking for the right Botox treatment center in Aurora, Colorado, visit Zap Laser Center today.
We want to be part of your recovery journey.
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