Why is this procedure done?
Botulinum toxin is a drug made from a type of bacteria that is toxic to the nerves. In small doses, this effect on the nerves is used to treat health problems like: ‚
- Muscle spasms after a brain injury or stroke or due to cerebral palsy
- Crossed eyes. This is strabismus.
- Too much sweating. This is hyperhydrosis.
- Migraine headaches
- Anal fissures
- Overactive bladder or not able to control urine flow
- Other muscle problems
What will the results be?
Problems like muscle spasms, too much sweating, and pain should lessen. The effects of the shot most often last 3 to 4 months. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If you are getting Botox for sweating problems:
- Shave your armpits.
- Do not use deodorant for one day before treatment.
- Do not exercise before the shot.
What happens during the procedure?
Doctors can do this procedure in the office or in a clinic. Sometimes, it is done in a hospital. Your doctor may give you numbing drugs where the shot is given. Botulinum toxin is injected right into the area where you are having problems. This will take about 10 to 20 minutes. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
You may go home after the procedure. You may go back to your normal activities. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Do not rub or massage the area where you had the shot.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
This procedure is generally safe. Possible problems include redness, bruising, and pain at the area where the shot is given. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Problems breathing, swallowing, or speaking
- Problems with your eyesight or sagging eyelids
- Weakness at the area where the shot is done
- Rash or any signs of allergy
Where can I learn more?
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/drugs-procedures-devices/procedures-devices/botulinum-toxin-injections-a-treatment-for-muscle-spasms.htmleatment.html ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/hyperhidrosis/treatment.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚