Botulinum toxin for migraine treatment
Botulinum toxin is best known for its use as a cosmetic compound. Botox helps relax muscles by slowing down nerve impulses. The result is firmer, often wrinkle-free skin. Botox injections can make a person look and feel younger.
However, because of the interesting way Botox affects the skin and nerves, it may also be used to treat pain, especially migraines. Migraines can be a challenging condition, but Botox from Illinois pain management doctors appears to be effective.
How does Botox work?
Botox is botulinum toxin, An extremely toxic compound and the most toxic protein known to man so far. It is produced by bacteria and can cause fatal botulism, paralyzing your body and disrupting your nervous system when consumed.
However, the FDA says it’s OK to inject small doses of the toxin for medical purposes.
Once Botox is injected into the body, it begins to relax the musculoskeletal system. This can reduce pain by helping to combat overstimulated muscles, twitching, and other painful musculoskeletal problems.
Botox treatment procedures are quick and easy. A pain management doctor in Illinois simply inserts a needle containing Botox into your body. It is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol or taking anti-inflammatory medications for at least a week before your treatment.
Botulinum toxin for migraine treatment
In 2010, Botox was approved for use in adults with chronic migraines. It is only suitable for people with a history of migraines and those who have frequent headaches at least half of the time each month.
If you have fewer than 14 headache days per month or have other types of headaches (including cluster headaches), this treatment is not right for you.
Botox was first discovered as a migraine treatment by accident. Doctors have repeatedly found that patients with chronic headaches improve when they seek Botox injections for cosmetic reasons. This spurred research into using the protein for new medical purposes.
Is Botox effective for migraines?
Studies show that migraine sufferers respond positively to Botox treatment. After Botox injections, they can enjoy completely headache-free days. Their headaches also decreased significantly.
After successive rounds of Botox treatments, more than 70% of patients reported that their headaches were reduced by half.
Doctors now believe Botox prevents headaches by interrupting the signaling of various brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. By intercepting them before they cause pain, Botox can prevent headaches from occurring.
in conclusion
Migraine is pain. They can be difficult to treat and can flare up at any time. Sometimes, over-the-counter pain relievers are not enough.
Fortunately, doctors are beginning to realize the importance of Botox in treating migraines. If you’re struggling with migraines, talk to an Illinois pain management doctor to see if they can help.
