Do you suffer from migraines? This type of headache, intense and chronic, significantly affects a large part of the population, impacting their quality of life. For this reason, advances in medicine are constantly seeking effective solutions to mitigate its effects and achieve lasting improvement. Recently, the use of bótox Botox has gained special prominence as a preventative treatment to reduce the intensity and frequency of chronic migraines. Although we usually associate Botox with cosmetic treatments, its application in neurology is revolutionizing the way we approach chronic pain. Do you want to know how it works, what benefits it provides and who can benefit from this innovative treatment? Below, we tell you everything you need to know.
How is Botox applied to treat chronic migraine?
El bótox, also known as botulinum toxin, is injected into strategic points on the head and neck. This specific application seeks block neurotransmitters responsible for pain, providing long-term relief to affected patients. During the procedure, fine needles to carry out between 31 and 39 infiltrations in key areas such as the forehead, temples, scalp, trapezius and occipital area. This distribution is done symmetrically between both sides of the body, although in selected cases more points can be added depending on the patient's needs.
Treatment is generally rapid, lasting between 10 and 15 minutes, and does not require hospitalization, allowing the patient to resume their daily activities shortly after. However, it is essential that this procedure be carried out by a Neurology specialist with experience in chronic migraines, since each case requires a personalized evaluation.
what results can be expected?
Clinical studies and experience in medical practice confirm that Botox offers significant results in patients with chronic migraine. About 50% of people begin to notice improvements after the first session, while an additional percentage experience a reduction in pain after the second or third application.
In general terms, patients achieve reduce the frequency of migraine episodes by more than half, as well as reducing their intensity and duration. In addition, the treatment allows for less use of oral medications to manage pain, which has additional advantages in avoiding the side effects associated with these drugs. After one year of consistent treatment, 80% of patients report substantial improvements, demonstrating the effectiveness of Botox as a preventative solution.
Duration and continuity of treatment
The effect of Botox is not permanent, so it is necessary to repeat the infiltrations every 12 weeks to maintain the benefits. Although each case is different, it has been shown that many patients achieve periods of remission wider from the third or fourth session, allowing applications to be spaced at greater intervals.
This treatment can be maintained for years, as it is safe and does not lose effectiveness over time, except in exceptional cases where antibodies against botulinum toxin develop. In these situations, they are evaluated therapeutic alternatives to ensure pain control.
Who are ideal candidates for Botox for migraines?
Botox is mainly indicated for people with chronic migraine, defined as headaches present at least 15 days per month, of which 8 or more meet the characteristics of a migraine for a minimum period of three months. It is also recommended for those who have not responded adequately to oral preventive treatments or are intolerant to these medications.
It is important to remember that each patient must undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist neurologist before starting this treatment. This assessment makes it possible to determine whether Botox is the most appropriate option based on the clinical history, symptoms and triggering factors specific to each case.
Possible side effects of Botox
Although Botox is a safe and well-tolerated treatment, like any medical procedure it can present Side effects mild and transient. Common symptoms include:
- Mild pain or tenderness at injection sites.
- Muscle stiffness or weakness in the treated area.
- Small bruises or swelling in the infiltrated areas.
In rare cases, complications such as temporary drooping of the eyelid, difficulty in lifting the eyebrows or general weakness may occur. However, these effects usually disappear spontaneously within a short period of time.
To minimize risks, it is essential to always go to qualified professionals that they follow the appropriate instructions and personalize the treatment according to the needs and characteristics of each patient.
Botox has proven to be an effective ally for people suffering from chronic migraines, improving their quality of life and allowing them to regain control over their well-being.