Headaches
What are Headaches?
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Most people will suffer a headache at some point within their lives, with the majority of headaches being mild, resolving with simple self-help measures (something to eat and/or drink, a period of rest or mild painkillers). If you are suffering regular headaches that do not settle with simple self-help methods it is important to see your GP, who can investigate why you are getting repeated headaches. There are lots of different types of headaches, including: simple headache; tension headache; migraine; cluster headache; and, headaches secondary to an underlying cause e.g. alcohol, flu-like illness, trauma). Tension headaches and chronic migraines have been shown to improve with botulinum toxin ("botox") injections – however, it is important that you have a confirmed diagnosis of either tension headache or migraine and that other headache causes have been excluded prior to botulinum toxin injections.
Summary Of Your Treatment
Procedure Time
30 minutes estimated
Full Recovery
24 hours estimated
Back to Work
Immediate estimated
Sensitivity Period
1 hour estimated
Anaesthetic
No anaesthetic necessary
Duration of Results
3-4 months *
Risk & Complications
Infection, bruises, drooping brow, allergic reactions (e.g. swelling) *
Why choose Centre Of Dental Excellence?
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All Centre Of Dental Excellence doctors have years of experience in assessing and treating Migraines & Tension Headaches with botulinum toxin injections. Our knowledge allows us to select the best treatment for you and avoid complications. We use only the best quality products and will advise you through every step of the procedure. Your health is our priority.
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The Science behind Migraines & Tension Headaches
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Tension headaches
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It is estimated that half of UK adults experience 1-2 tension headaches a month, with about 2-3:100 adults experiencing more than 15 tension headaches a month for at least three months in a row (chronic tension headaches). The symptoms, usually lasting between 30 minutes to several hours, often feel like a constant ache that affects both sides of the head, with neck muscles tightening and a sensation of pressure behind the eyes. Tension headaches normally aren't severe enough to prevent undertaking everyday activities but they can significantly affect sufferers' quality of life.
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Migraines
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Migraines affect approximately 15% of UK adults, with one in four women and one in 12 men afflicted. Symptoms of migraines include: an intense headache that occurs at the front or on one side of the head; nausea; increased sensitivity to light/noise/smells; and with a third of sufferers experiencing a preceding aura. Migraines typically last between four hours and three days, but symptoms of fatigue can extend up to a week following a migraine attack. Migraine frequency ranges from very occasional attacks to multiple attacks per week. There are many recognised migraine triggers, including emotional, physical, dietary, environmental and medicinal factors. Migraines are not fully understood but are thought to be caused by changes in brain chemistry, specifically a decrease in serotonin levels. Low serotonin levels can cause brain blood vessels to contract (causing the aura symptoms) and then dilate (causing the headache).
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It is important to rule out other types of headaches, as treating the underlying cause will often resolve headaches. However, if you have been diagnosed with tension headaches or migraines which significantly affect your quality of life unless treated appropriately, you may benefit from botulinum toxin injections.
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How can Migraines & Tension Headaches be treated?
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Lifestyle changes – avoiding food/drink triggers, getting enough sleep, regulating stress, improving posture, maintaining stable blood sugar levels and avoiding environmental triggers – can be helpful.
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However, often these changes are often not enough. Botulinum Toxin injections into the forehead, scalp and/or tight head/neck muscles can be very effective but will need to be repeated approximately every 4-6 months to maintain the effects.
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Things to consider…
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Botulinum toxin for Migraines & Tension Headaches can take up to a week to gain maximum efficiency and they don't work 100% for everybody. The treatment lasts between 3 – 6 months.
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Side effects cannot always be prevented but we are fully trained to recognise and treat any issues early and safely.
What our Patients Say
"I would recommend this practice to friends or family. I was treated with dignity and respect by staff at the practice at all times. I was treated very well and the procedure to be carried was fully explained to me as was the cost. I would recommend this practice to everyone. Wonderful service and treatment."
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- John Langton -