Does Botox Help Treat Chronic Migraines?
We all know Botox as a popular solution for wrinkles. But, over the years, medical professionals have found that Botox offers benefits that go beyond cosmetics. For one, Botox offers numerous benefits as a potential migraine treatment.
What Are Migraines?
Migraines are a type of recurring headache that causes moderate to severe pain with pulsing or throbbing. With a migraine, patients may also experience light sensitivity, blurred vision, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, among other symptoms.
Unfortunately, migraines can be difficult to treat. Conventionally, migraines have been treated with abortive and preventative medications, as well as preventative lifestyle changes. Botox is a more recent chronic migraine treatment that can improve or prevent migraine headaches.
How Does Botox Work For Migraines?
Botox contains a neurotoxin known as Clostridium botulinum. It works for wrinkles because it blocks signals that lead to facial muscle contractions. Patients who had migraines and used Botox for wrinkles found that their headaches improved after receiving the treatment, which led physicians to study Botox as a migraine treatment.
Botox is thought to improve migraine headaches by blocking neurotransmitters that deliver pain signals from the brain. By blocking these signals, Botox can stop pain signals from reaching the nerve endings in the head and neck.
Botox Treatment For Migraines
Botox treatment for migraines typically involves injecting the neurotoxin into targeted areas and trigger points on the head, face, and neck. Patients often have a Botox session every 12 weeks, with several shots administered in each session. Keep in mind that it will likely take two to three weeks for you to notice an improvement in your migraines.
If you’re suffering from migraines and seeking new treatment options, consider Botox. Make sure to find a physician in your area with experience in Botox for migraines, not just cosmetic applications.
