Botox® and Dysport® Treatment for Migraines (Severe Headaches)
What Are Migraine Headaches?
Migraine headaches are frequently recurring, debilitating headaches that are characterized by a severe pulsating pain that can last from a few hours to several days. Most people who suffer from migraines need to take time out from work and leisure time, with bed rest in a dark, quiet room being the only way to recover.
What Are Botox® and Dysport®? How Do They Work to Alleviate Migraines?
The use of Botox® and Dysport® to treat migraines is a recent development, but it has been approved by the FDA as a safe therapeutic muscle-relaxing treatment. The treatment involves injections into specific areas around the forehead and eyes. The Botox® or Dysport® works by interrupting the nerve impulses from the brain to relax muscle activity and reduce the pain and duration of migraines. This treatment is very effective in relieving “imploding”-type migraines that are characterized by severe pain moving inwards with a “squeezing” or “crushing” sensation. The use of Botox® or Dysport® relaxes the nerves that typically become inflamed during a migraine attack and cause acute pain.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for This Treatment?
People who suffer with chronic migraines or Bruxism (grinding of the teeth) may be ideal candidates for Botox® treatments. Those who have a history of migraine and suffer from headaches more than half the month also are potential candidates for therapeutic use of Botox®.
How Long Will the Treatment Take? How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Typically, migraine sufferers are given the treatment at intervals of about 10-12 weeks apart. The treatments are given as multiple injections around the head and neck to reduce the pain of severe migraine attacks.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
A series of injections might last 4 to 6 months. However, there is an accumulative effect whereby after several treatments the effects may last even longer, and up to 8 to 10 months in some people.
