Migraines can be debilitating, especially when they occur frequently. They can disrupt your entire day and halt your activities. Fortunately, we have a solution. In recent years, Botox has been approved as a treatment for migraines. Here’s why.
Understanding Migraines
Migraines are intense headaches that can leave you exhausted after hours of pain. They typically progress through four stages: prodrome, aura, the migraine itself, and postdrome. If you experience migraines frequently, you may already be familiar with these stages. Here’s a closer look at each phase.
Prodrome
The prodrome stage is the initial phase and can last from a few hours to several days. Common symptoms include irritability, depression, yawning, increased urination, food cravings, sensitivity to light and sound, concentration issues, fatigue, muscle stiffness, and nausea. Some people also have difficulty speaking, reading, and sleeping during this phase.
Aura
The aura stage lasts from five to 60 minutes and occurs right before the headache. Symptoms include visual disturbances, temporary vision loss, and numbness or tingling in parts of the body.
Headache
This is the peak phase of the migraine, lasting from four to 72 hours depending on its severity. In addition to earlier symptoms, this stage can cause throbbing, drilling, burning sensations, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, nasal congestion, depressed mood, and neck pain. Many also experience heightened sensitivity to light, smell, and sound.
Postdrome
The postdrome stage is the recovery phase, lasting 24 to 48 hours. This phase can leave you extremely fatigued and exhausted. Some people may feel depressed, have difficulty concentrating, feel euphoric, or lack understanding. Once this stage passes, the migraine cycle is complete.
Botox Treatment
No one wants to endure these symptoms, especially for hours or days on end. At Westmoreland Dental Group, we offer Botox injections as a treatment for migraines. Surprisingly, dental issues can be a trigger for migraines, and visiting a dentist can help identify and alleviate the cause. Our migraine therapy includes Botox injections in specific areas and a nightguard to alleviate jaw pain. The FDA approved Botox for chronic headaches in 2011. To ensure your comfort, our doctor administers general anesthesia before the injection. Botox is then injected into the affected areas, providing relief for up to three months by relaxing the muscles and reducing facial pain.
For more information about Botox for migraine relief, visit Westmoreland Dental Group. We offer various dental services, including migraine therapy, and are dedicated to helping you live a pain-free life. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call us at (423) 282-2844 today!