End Chronic Migraine Pain with Botox
Headaches are a common experience for most people. While many headaches are short-lived, for some individuals they become chronic, significantly impacting daily life and overall well-being.
Not All Migraine Pain is Chronic
Chronic migraine is much more than a prolonged headache. Not all chronic headaches are migraines, and not every migraine qualifies as chronic. Chronic migraine typically presents as moderate to severe pain, often on one side of the head (though it can be bilateral), and is accompanied by symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, movement, and smells. Nausea and vomiting are common, especially during attacks. Individuals who experience headaches at least 15 days per month, with at least 8 of those being migraine attacks, are diagnosed with chronic migraine. Even when symptoms like nausea and vomiting subside, the persistent headache can still significantly disrupt daily life.
Decreases Quality of Life
Chronic migraine can lead to significant financial challenges and a decline in quality of life, often due to work absences or job loss. This condition also takes a toll on mental health. In Turkey, about one in 6 to 7 adults experiences migraine, with one in every 10 migraine sufferers having chronic migraine. The prevalence of chronic migraine in Turkey is 1.7%. According to the World Health Organization, chronic migraine ranks higher than diabetes among illnesses that negatively impact daily living.
Botox Treatment for Chronic Migraine
Chronic migraine patients often face the risk of overusing painkillers and must endure the ongoing psychological burden of persistent pain. Recent scientific advances show that Botox is an effective preventive option for chronic migraine. The FDA has approved botulinum toxin (Botox) injections for this purpose, and the Ministry of Health also authorized its use in July 2011. It is important to have the procedure recommended by a neurologist.
Botox treatment involves a single session of injections performed with fine needles across the forehead, temples, neck, and trapezius areas. The procedure takes about 15“20 minutes. Effects are usually noticed within a week and last between 3 and 6 months. For optimal results, repeat treatments are recommended at six-month intervals if headaches return or persist.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .