From smoothing out wrinkles to stopping excessive sweat, there are a number of benefits of Botox injections, so long as you don't mind having your facial movements minimized. Botox is still new, so long-term side effects are not yet known, but it seems safe thus far.
Various Benefits of Botox Injections
Botox is derived from Clostridium Botulinum, a bacterium that can be dangerous if eaten, but as a cosmetic created in the laboratory, seems safe. Because it has the effect of freezing muscles, it was originally developed to treat spasms, particularly overactive eye spasms. However, it was soon found to minimize the look of crow's feet and superficial wrinkles because it freezes the face. If you can't make the movement that emphasizes the wrinkle, the wrinkle may as well not exist.
While this is the most popular use of Botox, it has also been shown to be highly effective in the treatment of migraine headaches. This is particularly beneficial for both sufferers and doctors, because there are virtually no side effects, whereas most pain medications have a host of side effects.
Botox is also useful for those with hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweat. This is a syndrome that is usually treated with prescription anti-perspirants, the long-term effects of which aren't known and, for those whose hyperhidrosis is especially severe, is only mildly effective. Botox, however, balances the problem and relieves the condition for several months at a time.
Benefits of Botox Injections for Migraines
Exactly how Botox treats migraine pain is unknown, but medical experts think that the drug blocks the sensory nerves that project the pain messages to the brain, as well as relaxing muscles, thus making them less sensitive to an onslaught of pain. The only side effects observed thus far are a temporary drooping of the skin around the injection site, which can be avoided by changing the point of injection, and the occasional slight bruising, bleeding or burning sensation, all of which resolve themselves shortly. People who receive Botox injections for migraines report the instances of the headaches drop by at least half, if not more, and the headaches are less severe.
Benefits of Botox Injections for Men
Studies are suggesting that men with enlarged prostates can gain relief from Botox, and unlike those who use the injections for wrinkles, headaches or sweat, the relief can last up to a year after the injection, as opposed to only a few months. By injecting Botox directly into the prostate gland, problems like urinary tract infections and frequent urination are improved considerably. The side effects that can occur with medication, such as incontinence or erectile dysfunction, are not observed with Botox. The Botox reduces the size of the gland, thus improving the flow of urine.
Other Possible Benefits of Botox
Medical professionals are hopeful that Botox may prove to be a useful treatment of arthritis pain. Initial studies show a decrease in pain and an improvement in function for people with various types of arthritis, and the benefits lasted anywhere from three to twelve months. As promising as this is, larger and more controlled studies are needed to determine if this will be the next big thing in the treatment of arthritis pain.
Problems With Botox
While there is no risk of contracting botulism from Botox, it must be remembered that it is a drug, not a cosmetic. In addition to the possibility of some droopiness or puffiness, there is always a chance of an allergic reaction. This is why you should be sure to have the injection performed by a trained doctor in a medical office. The doctor should also know what other medications you are taking, as the Botox can counteract their efficiency. Pregnant women are advised not to use Botox because it can affect the placenta.
The biggest problem with Botox isn't medical; it's that the freezing of the face doesn't allow a person to be as expressive. You may look younger, but you can also look less human. However, it does fade after a few months, so if you're not happy, you'll look like yourself again soon.
