According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, approximately 35 million Americans suffer from migraines. Migraines are recurring headaches, ranging from moderate or severe throbbing to pulsing pain.
Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Mohammed Alghoul understands that living with chronic migraine headaches can negatively affect one’s quality of life. The leading plastic surgeon offers Botox to patients who suffer from chronic migraines. In this blog post, Dr. Alghoul shares more information on Botox and explains how the injectable can help relieve migraine pain.
About Botox
Botox is made of a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes muscles, preventing them from contracting. During Botox treatment, small amounts of the neurotoxin are injected into the treated muscle(s). The muscle is paralyzed, which in turn smooths wrinkles and fine lines on the overlying skin, creating a softer, smoother appearance. The procedure is non-invasive and can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, making it the preferred choice for many patients seeking a rejuvenated facial appearance.
Botox for Migraine Treatment
For migraine treatment, Dr. Alghoul injects Botox into several target areas on the head and neck. The toxin relaxes the muscles and blocks the release of substances at nerve endings, reducing muscle contraction and the transmission of pain signals.
Research shows results are effective on patients who experience 15 or more headache-days a month, with each one lasting four hours or more. Studies have found that Botox prevents up to nine headache-days a month among these patients. Additional research has found Botox may also help with cluster headaches, a type of severe headache that tends to recur over a period of several weeks. One study specifically found that Botox provided pain relief for up to eight months for people who experienced cluster headaches.
Because the results of Botox are temporary, the FDA suggests repeat treatments be administered at intervals of about 12 weeks to treat headache symptoms. Patients who respond well to Botox injections may be suitable candidates for migraine surgery. Dr. Alghoul can perform migraine surgery to permanently release the muscle or nerve in the problem areas.
Schedule a Consultation
If you suffer from migraines and would like to find out more about Botox treatment, or if you are a candidate for migraine surgery, speak to Dr. Alghoul today. Please call his Chicago office today at (312) 695-6022.
