If you suffer from frequent, throbbing headaches accompanied by nausea, photophobia and weakness - you may be struggling with chronic migraine. The good news? There is a way to reduce the number of attacks, their severity and their duration - without having to take medication every day.**
With the help of botulinum toxin, more widely known as Botox. Although it is mainly associated with smoothing wrinkles, it has been found in the treatment of migraines scientifically and clinically proven use.
Chronic migraine - what does it mean?
Not every migraine is eligible for botulinum toxin treatment. As defined, chronic migraine it:
- at least 15 days with headache per month,
- of which at least 8 days have migraine-like features,
- such a state persists for a minimum of 3 months.
Migraine not only affects quality of life, but also the ability to work, concentrate and function socially.
How does botox work for migraine?
The mechanism of action of botulinum toxin in migraines is:
- blocking the release of neurotransmitters responsible for transmitting pain signals,
- relaxation of tense head, neck and neck muscles,
- reduction of so-called trigger points pain.
During the procedure approx. 30-40 fine injections in precisely defined points - including the forehead, temples, neck, occiput and neck.
What are the effects?
Effects usually appear 10-14 days after treatment, and full effectiveness is seen after 2-3 treatment cycles.
Most patients are observed:
- reduction in the number of migraine days,
- reduction in the duration of seizures,
- alleviation of associated symptoms (photophobia, sensitivity to sound).
The therapy is recognised as effective by the International Headache Society and used worldwide as a treatment for chronic migraine.
Is it safe?
Yes. Botox treatment of migraines is FDA and EMA approved (European Medicines Agency). However, it should be carried out only by doctors trained in the PREEMPT (PREvention of Migraine via Botulinum Toxin) technique.
Most common (mild) side effects:
- slight bruising at the injection sites,
- short-term neck tension,
- a feeling of heaviness in the forehead.
For whom?
The treatment is recommended for people:
- with diagnosed chronic migraine,
- for which drug treatment is unsuccessful,
- who want to reduce the amount of painkillers used.
It is not a method "for a simple headache", but targeted therapy for patients with a specific chronic migraine pattern.
Summary
Botox is not just about aesthetics. It plays a real, scientifically proven role in the treatment of chronic migraines - improving patients' quality of life, reducing the need for pharmacotherapy and allowing them to regain control of their daily lives.
If chronic migraine accompanies you regularly - it is worth consulting your doctor to see if you qualify for botulinum toxin treatment.
