Differences between tension headaches and migraines
Specific to migraine is that the headache attack is often preceded by an aura. Such an aura may consist of phenomena seen such as flashes of light or certain shapes (“mouse steps”) or sometimes certain smells perceived. Also typical of migraines is nausea during an attack, often combined with light sensitivity.
Similarities between tension headaches and migraines
Often, muscle tension plays an important role in both types of headaches. A convulsive pain is then described that usually comes from the shoulders or neck, and then moves forward, to the forehead.
Migraine medication
Many migraine patients sometimes take daily medications to suppress the attacks. Some of these medications have unpleasant side effects; for example, they can make the patient “drowsy. Moreover, many medications help only partially and often only make seizures more “bearable,” not prevent them.
The cause of migraine and tension headaches
The underlying cause of most headaches is unknown, but evidence suggests that increased muscle tension often plays a crucial role.
Migraine, tension headaches and Botulinum toxin
Botulinum toxin is a drug whose positive effect has been demonstrated in recent years in a variety of conditions where there is increased muscle tension. The exact mechanism of action is still the subject of various studies, but experience shows that about 80% of migraine (and other headache) patients benefit from the use of Botulinum toxin. In these patients, marked relief or complete disappearance of symptoms occurs. Attacks become less painful, less numerous or do not occur at all.
The use of Botox against migraines has long since ceased to be experimental. In the United States, the use of Botox against migraine has been well established since authorities approved it in 2010(FDA Migraine- Botox USA).
Treatment for migraine and tension headaches
Treatment of the frown muscle is usually sufficient to produce a marked improvement in pain symptoms. Sometimes, based on pain, the temples, back of the head, neck or muscles in the shoulders may also be treated. The injections are not perceived as painful by most patients. If necessary, the skin can be numbed using a cream. Only in the locations where the Botulinum Toxin was injected will the muscles begin to relax over the course of days (up to a maximum of two weeks).
The effect of treatment
The effect of Botox is always temporary (four to six months). Possible side effects of treatment with Botulinum toxin is related to the prick itself (possibly a small bruise).
Rates
The cost of treatment depends on the amount of botulinum toxin needed for optimal effect. In general, the physician will start with a dose, in accordance with the dose for one region as used in cosmetic application.
Read Cathelijne’s successful story of treating her migraines using Botox here.