Migraine treatment with Botox
Migraines are so much more than just really bad headaches. They are actually a type of chronic neurological condition that can make your head throb with such intense pain that it feels like it's pulsing from the inside out. Often the pain is only felt on one side of the head and can sometimes even be disorientating.
Dr Nina
Authorised medical practitioner
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This pain is not just a temporary thing; it is not something that comes and goes in a flash. No, it stays with you. It may last for a few hours if you are lucky, but in some cases this pain becomes an unwelcome guest that hangs around for a couple of days.
And these are not isolated incidents either. They're serious episodes that pop up time and time again, making it feel like you're stuck in an endless loop of pain. It's a tough journey, but understanding what you're dealing with is the first step towards finding the right treatment.
Thankfully, we have some good news for you. Botox for migraines could be a solution to get rid of unwanted guests. Keep reading to find out if it's right for you.
Symptoms of migraine
Living with migraines is really challenging. They are a complete package of intense, pulsating pain, which usually worsens with movement.
It is not uncommon for it to be accompanied by nausea and even vomiting. Sensitivity to light, sounds and smells often escalates during these episodes, which can feel quite overwhelming.
Migraine attacks can also cause severe fatigue and make concentration a real struggle.
Authorisation for Botox treatment in Gothenburg, Sweden
Botox has been a recognised medicine for chronic migraine management in adults since 2011. In the UK, you must meet the following criteria to qualify for this treatment:
- A confirmed diagnosis of chronic migraine, defined by experiencing episodes at least 15 days a month, with at least eight days characterised by intense migraines, persisting for at least three months.
- Failure to achieve adequate relief from at least two other migraine treatments
- A copy of an MRI or CT scan confirming your migraine diagnosis.
It is important to mention that Botox treatment is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you are planning to have children, consult your doctor before starting treatment.
The treatments
Botox, a muscle relaxant, has been shown to be very effective in the treatment of migraine (study). Administered via injections in a specific pattern in the face and neck, it offers consistent and rapid relief from the debilitating symptoms of a migraine attack. The effect is usually noticeable within 3-7 days of treatment.
We understand that every patient is unique, and sometimes this standard schedule may need to be adjusted to meet your specific needs. This is especially the case when the standard schedule does not provide the expected results.
It is important to note that the full benefits of Botox treatments are not immediate. You will need some patience, as it usually takes 2-3 treatments before you experience maximum relief.
The treatment consists of Botox injections, carefully delivered in a distinct pattern across seven zones encompassing your face, head and neck.
We usually follow the PREEMT protocol, which includes:
- Administration of 31 injections in total
- Scheduling of these over intervals of about 12 weeks
A promising result
The good news is that the majority of patients, around 70% (study), report significant improvements after Botox treatments. You may notice fewer headache days, reduced intensity of pain, or, in some cases, total relief of symptoms.
