Botox for Migraines – Forest Park, OH

A Closer Look at Botox for Migraines in Forest Park, OH

Botox has become a highly acceptable way to treat individuals with chronic migraine attacks. Here is a closer look at what you likely want to know before you opt for treatment in our dental office.

What is Botox?

Botox is commonly used to relax facial muscles to deter signs of aging. However, the muscle-relaxing properties of the medication have been shown to be beneficial for other health issues, including migraine headaches.

How does Botox work for migraines?

Certain types of headaches are characterized by tension on specific groups of nerve fibers that are involved in the transmission of pain signals. During a migraine, chemicals that are responsible for carrying these pain signals are highly active. Botox works by blocking some of the chemicals and pain transmission, which means the pain associated with migraine is not wholly perceived by the brain.

According to the American Migraine Foundation, Botox may even prevent migraines before they start. However, multiple treatments may be necessary before the full effects can be experienced. Most patients see optimal results after two or three treatments with Botox, but every individual’s results can vary.

Who is a good candidate for Botox for migraines?

Even though Botox for migraines is a relatively modern treatment option, many practitioners have embraced the treatment because of its effectiveness. Further, the treatment is now approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in adults over the age of 18.

To be a good candidate for Botox treatment for your migraines, it is important that you have been properly diagnosed with migraine attacks. Chronic migraine attacks mean you have headaches about 15 days out of every 30. If this does not describe you, another treatment option may be more viable.

Botox is also better for people who are looking for a long-term treatment plan. The results of treatment are not permanent; you should be comfortable with coming back for treatment about every three months or so. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological conditions may not be good candidates. It is also important to avoid Botox treatments if you have ever experienced botulism or sensitivity to Botox in the past.

Botox for Migraine Treatment – What to Expect

It takes longer to do the consultation and medical history assessment than to actually do the Botox injections. In general, your treatment will take around 20 to 30 minutes.

Before the injections, the practitioner may use a topical anesthetic to slightly desensitize the skin. Then, they will use a tiny needle to do a series of injections in specific areas around your neck and forehead. After treatment, you may have a little swelling and redness but can pretty much get back to normal activity right away. Botox may not work immediately after treatment. However, the effects tend to settle in within a few weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Botox Migraine Treatments