1 Farrer Park Station Road, #08-14, Farrer Park Hospital (Connexion), Singapore 217562
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ALLEVIATE PAIN CLINIC
We see patients with a variety of Pain-related conditions.
BTX Treatment for Migraine: Everything You Need to Know
Migraines are a common but debilitating condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. If you're seeking relief from frequent or severe migraines, one treatment option is BTX injections, which have been FDA-approved for migraine treatment since 2010. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about migraines and how BTX can help.
How Do I Know If I Have a Migraine?
Migraines are a type of headache characterized by throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. The pain is typically moderate to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
- Aura (sensory disturbances that occur before or during the migraine)
An aura may include visual changes, such as zigzag lines or tunnel vision, or sensory symptoms like tingling in the limbs or face. If you experience these symptoms regularly, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.
What Are the Different Treatment Options for Migraine?
Migraine treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Medications can be classified as either abortive or preventive treatments.
- Abortive Medications: These are used during a migraine attack to stop the pain. Common over-the-counter options include paracetamol and ibuprofen. If these don't work, stronger medications such as triptans or Cafergot may be prescribed.
- Preventive Medications: These are taken daily to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Preventive treatments are recommended for individuals who experience frequent or severe migraines. These may include antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and anti-CGRP medications.
If these treatments do not sufficiently control your migraines, BTX injections may be recommended.
How Does BTX Help with Migraines?
BTX treatment for migraines was first discovered by Dr. William J. Binder, a plastic surgeon, in 1992. He noticed that patients who received BTX for cosmetic purposes reported a reduction in their migraine frequency. This finding was later confirmed through research, leading to the FDA's approval of BTX for migraine treatment in 2010.
BTX helps reduce migraines through several mechanisms:
- Muscle Relaxation: By relaxing the muscles around the head and neck, BTX reduces the tension that can contribute to migraine pain.
- Reduction in Nerve Transmitters: BTX inhibits the release of CGRP (Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide), a molecule involved in pain transmission, thereby reducing the intensity and frequency of migraines.
- Interruption of Pain Signaling: BTX disrupts the pain signals sent from sensory nerves in the face, helping to prevent migraines from occurring.
Who Should Not Receive BTX Injections?
While BTX injections are generally safe, there are certain individuals who should avoid them. You should not receive BTX injections if you have any of the following conditions:
- Allergy to BTX or its components
- Neuromuscular disorders, such as Myasthenia Gravis
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (due to potential risks to the baby)
- Taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants)
- Other muscular conditions, such as ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) or difficulty with swallowing or breathing
