Neurotoxins are an effective way of treating several medical conditions, including migraine headaches. Read on to learn what neurotoxins are and the conditions they can treat.
If you would like to know more about neurotoxins and how they can help you, book a consultation at Cayman Neurology and Pain Management. Our expert neurologists in the Cayman Islands are on hand to help you.
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Neurotoxins are substances that alter the function of the nervous system. They include a wide range of natural and human-made chemical compounds. A common neurotoxin used for treating medical conditions is botulinum toxin. Many people have heard about the brand of botulinum toxin called Botox®.
Botox treatment works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. As a result, it releases the tension.
Neurotoxins are routinely used in the treatment of pain and other medical issues. Issues that may be resolved by neurotoxin injections include the following:
Neurotoxin injections are a clinically proven chronic migraine treatment. Chronic migraine is when you have at least 15 headache days a month, with at least eight of those being a migraine headache.
Neurotoxins are not effective at treating other types of headaches, such as tension-type headaches, episodic migraine, and cluster headaches.
The treatment could include several injections in the face and neck. Some individuals may not find relief immediately and may require additional treatments to find relief from migraine symptoms. The benefits of these injections should last for many years.
Neurotoxin injections for migraines offer long-term benefits by reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, potentially providing sustained relief for patients over time. Additionally, they can improve overall quality of life by minimizing reliance on other medications and interventions.
Studies have shown that treating back pain with the use of neurotoxin injections can result in relief for up to four months.
Neuropathy (also known as nerve pain) can affect the hands, feet, and legs. Research shows benefits when a neurotoxin injection is administered just under the skin in the affected area.
There are several types of arthritis, each of which has its symptoms. Arthritis affects the joints and can result in chronic pain that is unable to be treated with over-the-counter medications.
Excessive sweating is more than just a nuisance. Individuals with hyperhidrosis can sweat uncontrollably, even in cool temperatures. Neurotoxin has the capability to immobilize the nerve responsible for transmitting the signal to the brain, thus prompting sweating.
We have outlined below some general information on what you can expect when receiving treatment with neurotoxins.
Your doctor may require that you stop taking blood thinners before receiving neurotoxin treatment. They will tell you if it is necessary and how long before the treatment you should stop them.
Although you’re not likely to feel much pain during the procedure, you may choose to have your skin numbed. Several options are available to numb the skin prior to treatment, including creams, cold spray, and a local anesthetic.
Before beginning the neurotoxin process, the injection area will be cleaned. Your doctor will then inject tiny amounts of botulinum toxin into your skin or muscles using a thin needle. The number of shots given will depend on the condition being treated. In some cases, ultrasound will be used to guide the needle to the right place.
You will need to follow some measures to prevent the toxin from spreading to other parts of your body. This includes not rubbing or massaging the treated areas for 24 hours. You should also refrain from lying down for 2 to 4 hours after getting the shots. You should also avoid physical exertion for 24 hours.
You should be able to return to your usual activities as soon as the procedure is done. Your healthcare provider will give you specific details regarding this.
You can expect the neurotoxin to have an effect between 1 and 3 days after treatment, though, it can take up to a week or more to see full results.
The results of neurotoxin treatment can last up to 3 or 4 months. This will depend on the condition that is being treated. Some conditions will require that you repeat the treatment to maintain the effect.
Schedule a consultation with one of the neurologists at Cayman Neurology and Pain Management today! Our experts are providing neurotoxin treatment for various conditions in the Cayman Islands. We look forward to helping you find the pain relief you are looking for.
Medically reviewed by Sara T.
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