If you suffer from migraine headaches, you know how disruptive to your life they can be. Although there are multiple prescription and over-the-counter treatments for these headaches, doctors use Botox® injections. Long used for cosmetic purposes, the injections can also reduce the transmission of pain signals to the brain, reducing migraine discomfort. 

How Botox Works on Migraines 

Doctors believe that the injections work by paralyzing the neurotransmitters that deliver pain signals from your brain. By injecting the medication into areas with nerve endings, the pain centers become paralyzed and cannot activate. Botox also stops muscle contractions, which can also exacerbate pain. 

What Is the Treatment Like?

Most people see results after two to three treatments given about three months apart. At every treatment, the doctor injects Botox into seven different muscle areas of the head. Each individual injection contains five units, or 0.1 mL, of Botox. Most patients report results within a few weeks of the first treatment, but it can take up to six months to experience the full benefits. 

Side effects from Botox are minimal. Each shot feels like a small pinprick, and some people report having a sore neck for a day or two post-treatment. It's rare that someone has an allergic reaction after treatment.

Who Should Consider Botox 

 Only adults who have chronic migraines, meaning 15 or more headache days per month, should receive Botox treatment for migraines. Children and teens, those who have less frequent headaches, or those who have different types of headaches, such as cluster headaches, should seek other options. It's also typically only recommended for patients who haven't had success with other migraine treatments, including antidepressants or blood pressure medications. 

If you have chronic migraines that haven't responded to other treatments, reach out to Elberta Dental to discuss Botox treatment. Serving clients in Elberta, Foley, Lillian, and the surrounding Baldwin County areas in Alabama, this dentist offers injections to help relieve the symptoms of migraine and TMJ, in addition to general and cosmetic dentistry services. Learn more about the practice online, or call (251) 986-3500 to schedule an appointment.