Plastic surgeons have used Botox for years to smooth out wrinkles and create a more youthful appearance. However, researchers have recently discovered that Botox shots can also provide relief to chronic migraine sufferers. Keep reading to find out how Botox treatments can alleviate the frequency and symptoms of your migraines.

How Do Botox Injections Treat Migraines?

Botox is actually made from a neurotoxin that blocks signals between your nerves and your brain. This effect causes muscles to relax, which helps relieve the appearance of wrinkles.

Doctors now believe that Botox also blocks pain signals, potentially reducing migraine symptoms. Essentially, the medication likely works by intercepting signals around your head and neck before they trigger painful migraines.

How Effective Is Botox in Treating Migraines?

Numerous studies have shown that Botox reduces both the number of migraines patients experience per month and the severity of their symptoms. Patients who received three rounds of Botox reported that they experienced a 50% reduction in migraine days.

Five rounds of treatment can lead to a 70% improvement in your condition. Many patients can leave behind medication and other treatments after receiving a cycle of Botox injections.

What Should You Expect During Botox Treatment?

Botox treatments for migraines typically involve several different injections. Most doctors prescribe weekly treatments for a period of up to 12 weeks. In the end, the treatment usually involves 30 to 40 injections.

This may sound intimidating, but Botox injections don’t penetrate the skin. This makes them much less painful than other types of treatments. However, you may experience pain and some slight swelling at the injection point later.

Most patients will start to see results within two to three weeks. As a general rule, the more frequent your migraines are, the more improvement you can expect to see.

With over 40 years of experience, the board-certified neurologists at Neurological Consultants Of Alaska LLC have access to some of the most advanced treatments in the industry. If you’re living with migraines, you can rely on their team to help you get the relief you need. Visit their website for more on their migraine treatment services, or call (907) 277-1623 to schedule an appointment at their office in Anchorage.