Known as Botox® to the 6 million patients nationwide who benefit from it each year, botulinum toxin is a surprisingly versatile injectable. Produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum, the drug was originally developed to treat eye spasms and crossed-eyes – but burst onto the beauty scene in the early 2000s when doctors discovered it could “paralyze” facial muscles, resulting in a temporary improvement in the appearance of facial wrinkles. And while many today still associate the drug with the ever-youthful faces of Hollywood’s elite (or even your friend next store), Botox® is not just for wrinkles! Here are few other reasons people rely on Botox®:
Primary Axillary Hyperhidrosis
For those suffering from Primary Axillary Hyperhidrosis, a condition marked by excessive sweating – the saying “don’t sweat the small stuff” is easier said than done. If you’re a heavy sweater, you’ve probably tried every antiperspirant on the market to no avail; or perhaps, you just avoid white shirts like the plague. Have you considered what Botox can do for you? When topical treatments don’t work, Botox may be injected into the underarm skin to alleviate these symptoms. This procedure received the green light from the FDA in 2004, and just one convenient treatment can offer up to seven months of drier underarms (or hands and feet if that’s your focus).
Overactive Bladder
Botox can also be beneficial for controlling an overactive bladder. Research conducted by Loyola University proved just that. Of the women treated for overactive bladder, 70% saw a reduction from an average of five to three leaks a day. Another study conducted by Allergen, the makers of Botox®, found that approximately nine of 10 patients saw a 50% or greater reduction in the number of daily incontinence incidences.
Chronic Migraines
Sufferers of chronic migraines know the struggles their ailment can cause. Not to be confused with a headache, migraines are marked by intense, persistent headaches (occurring or more 15 days a month), as well as sensitivity to light and sound. The first and only FDA-approved preventive treatment for migraines, Botox® one-ups pills such as Excedrin that only combat symptoms once they’ve already started. When injected by a Botox® specialist every 12 weeks, it can ward off eight to nine headaches every month!
Other Treatments
Botox® is also seen as a cutting-edge treatment for a bevy of other disorders, even though some may not yet be FDA-approved for use in this areas. Botox® has been found to be a safe and effective treatment for depression, abnormal heartbeat, severely cold hands, and cleft lip scars in babies.
Botox® — it’s not just for wrinkles! Are you interested in learning more about what Botox® can do for you? The Atlantic Center of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery has a state-of-the-art facility and expertly trained staff who utilize Botox® to treat a variety of symptoms. They’ll work with you to solve your issues – whether it’s stopping excessive sweating once and for all, or simply smoothing out a few lines. For more information about their services, or to schedule an appointment, call 954-983-1899.
