Understanding Chronic Migraines
Chronic migraines are not just headaches. They are debilitating neurological events that can include severe pain, visual disturbances, dizziness, nausea, sweats/chills, pounding heart, and sensitivity to light and sound. For those experiencing migraines 15 or more days per month life can be significantly disrupted.
What is Chronic Migraine?
A chronic migraine diagnosis is generally given to individuals who experience a headache on 15 or more days per month for a period of three months or longer, and of these, at least 8 are migraines. In contrast, episodic migraines are characterized by those who have migraines on fewer than 15 days per month. Chronic migraines can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. The headaches can be incapacitating, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. It's important to remember that migraines can progress from an episodic to a chronic state. This progression might be influenced by several factors, including medication overuse, ineffective acute treatment, obesity, depression, and other factors.
Click the link to take a quick quiz to see if you are a Chronic Migraine sufferer:
What is Botox?: Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. While it's often associated with cosmetic procedures to reduce wrinkles, Botox has been approved by the FDA for various medical treatments, including chronic migraines.
Why Botox for Migraines?: Botox works for migraines by being injected into specific muscles to block signals that might lead to migraine onset. 50% of patients in the PREMPT trial reported a 50% reduction in migraine onset after the first treatment with Botox. It has been FDA-approved since 2010 to help prevent migraines in adults who experience them frequently.
The Procedure: The Botox injection procedure is relatively quick and can often be completed in a 15-20 minute office visit. Patients receive 31 injections in specific points along the head and neck, designed to reduce the symptoms of future migraine attacks. Treatments are typically repeated every 12 weeks.
What to Expect After Treatment: Side effects of Botox can include neck pain and headaches. Most patients start to see the effects of treatment about two weeks after their first series of injections, with the full effects becoming noticeable approximately 6 weeks post-treatment. Ongoing treatments every 12 weeks may be necessary to maintain the benefits.
Patient Testimonials: "Before Botox treatments, I had to plan my life around my migraines. But now, I have more good days than bad. It's been life-changing!" - Sarah, 35
FAQs:
How do I know if I suffer from Chronic Migraines?
Yes, when administered by a trained professional, Botox is considered safe. It has been FDA-approved for the treatment of chronic migraines since 2010.
Coverage varies, so it's important to check with your individual insurance provider. However, if insurance will not cover the cost of your Botox for Chronic Migraines there are other options we can discuss with you.
Book a Consultation: Ready to explore if Botox treatments for chronic migraines are right for you? Contact us today at 403-475-9296 or via email at dermnurseyyc@gmail.com to schedule a consultation with one of our trained professionals.