How Botox Works On Headaches And Migraines
Botox offers patients a preventive measure to avoid experiencing the discomfort associated with migraines. In fact, it is the only method available to prevent migraines before they start rather than treat symptoms after they develop. Botox achieves these results by blocking the release of chemicals involved in a pain response from the nerve endings of the pain fibers associated with migraines.
The FDA approved Botox for treatment of chronic headaches and migraines in 2008, so this treatment method has been in use for over a decade. In that time, very few patients have experienced serious side effects, making this a safe alternative for patients who have not gotten relief from other treatment approaches.
Pursuing Treatment With An Oral Surgeon
Patients will receive anywhere from 30-40 Botox injections each session, and treatment is completed in about 10-15 minutes. The patient experiences minimal, if any, discomfort from the injections. Typically, the patient will start to get the benefits of the injections within 2-3 weeks.
Patients should get Botox injections for migraines a bit more frequently than they would for cosmetic purposes – around every three months – in order to continue to reduce the frequency of their migraines.
A significant benefit of consulting with an oral surgeon for this treatment is that headaches can be a symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These dental specialists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat these conditions.
Patients who want to work on preventing migraines and reducing the negative effects these headaches have on their quality of life should consider Botox. Visit Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates to learn more about this treatment option.