Migraines–Botox Therapy Edmonton

If you’ve ever had migraines, then you know how bad they can be and we are grateful at our Edmonton injection clinic that for some patients, Botox injections can be life changing!

What is a migraine?

A migraine is characterized by intense, throbbing headaches typically accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. They can last for hours to days and can significantly impact daily life.

 

What treatment options are available for migraines?

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen.
• Prescription medications such as triptans, which help reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels in the brain, and ergotamines, beta-blockers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants.
• Lifestyle changes
• Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, massage, and relaxation techniques.
• Botox injections: For some patients, injections of Botox can be life changing. Although we typically inject Botox for cosmetic reasons in our Edmonton clinic, we also frequently inject Botox for headaches. On the other hand, this procedure does not work for all patients.

Our dermatologist, Dr. Nakatsui, does not prescribe agents such as triptans or beta blockers, but if you have worked with your family physician or neurologist and are looking into trying Botox injections, we would be happy to help.

Botox injections for migraines are covered by Alberta Health in some circumstances

When are Botox Injections for migraines covered?

There are two components to getting coverage for Botox injections in Alberta. Firstly, there is the cost of the medication (i.e. Botox) and and secondly, there is the cost of the injection fee.

For the Botox, many drug plans will cover this but you will need to meet their criteria, which often requires you to fail some of the other prescription medications before the drug plan will agree to cover the cost of the Botox.

For the injection fee, Alberta Health requires you to be within a certain age range (18-65 years of age) and must experience 15+ days of migraines per month to qualify. If you do not meet these criteria (e.g. older than the age of 65), then you will not be eligible for coverage.

What are the common triggers for migraines?

Common triggers for migraines vary from person to person, but some of the most frequently reported ones include:

1. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, or menopause
2. Certain foods and beverages: Including aged cheeses, processed meats, chocolate, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, and artificial sweeteners like aspartame
3. Skipping meals or fasting: Irregular meal patterns or fasting
4. Environmental factors: Such as strong odours, smoke, bright lights, and changes in weather or barometric pressure
5. Stress: Emotional stress, anxiety, and tension
6. Sleep disturbances
7. Physical factors: Such as intense physical exertion
8. Medications: Some medications, including certain blood pressure medications
9. Sensory stimuli: Such as flickering screens or intense visual stimuli
10. Changes in routine: Such as jet lag or changes in work schedule

Identifying and avoiding triggers can be an essential part of managing migraines for many individuals. Keeping a migraine diary or journal can help track patterns and identify specific triggers.

Botox for migraines

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If you would like to schedule a consultation at our Edmonton dermatology clinic, call us at 780-482-1414, text us at 780-707-8836, or email us using the following link.

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Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to prevent migraines?

Yes, there are several lifestyle changes that can help prevent migraines or reduce their frequency and severity. Here are some strategies you can try:

1. Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Aim for consistent bedtimes and wake times, and try to get seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
3. Eat regular meals: Try to maintain a consistent meal schedule to stabilize blood sugar levels.
4. Identify and avoid triggers: Keep a migraine diary to track potential triggers, such as certain foods, drinks, environmental factors, stressors, or hormonal changes, and try to avoid or minimize exposure to them.
5. Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga to help lower stress levels and prevent migraines.
6. Exercise regularly: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga. However, be cautious as intense exercise can also trigger migraines in some individuals.
7. Limit caffeine and alcohol: Reduce consumption of caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
8. Maintain good posture: Practice good posture and take frequent breaks if you spend long periods sitting or using electronic devices to prevent tension headaches.
9. Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
10. Consider relaxation techniques: Explore relaxation techniques such as biofeedback, acupuncture, massage therapy, or cognitive-behaviour therapy.

Can Botox be used to help other condition?

Botox can be used to help other medical conditions, such as temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ pain), muscular tension headaches, and bruxism. It can also help patients with medical conditions such as hyperhidrosis.

Do you have any questions about Botox injection therapy for migraines? Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have!