Migraine Migraines are a type of headache reported by people all over the world.
What is Migraine? Migraine is not just a bad headache. It is characterized as a distinct brain disease, which affects the general population more than the common cold. It is on the list of debilitating diseases and can be effectively treated.
Migraine: Categories Migraine is classified by the International Headache Society into 3 main categories: Migraine without aura, which are recurrent migraine attacks of moderate to severe intensity, lasting from 4 to 72 hours. Migraine with aura, which is a neurological syndrome — with visual disturbances, dizziness, vertigo, numbness — that precedes the pain and usually subsides with its onset. Chronic migraines, which occur more than 15 days per month.
What Triggers a Migraine? The exact mechanism causing migraines is not fully understood. However, certain factors can trigger them, such as: Stress. Hormones. Alcohol. Weather changes. Lack of sleep. Jet lag. Bright lights, noise, and odors.
Who is Affected by Migraines? Migraines can affect anyone. According to international statistics, migraines affect approximately 12% of the population, with women being more commonly affected, where it is 3 times more frequent.
Migraine: Diagnosis A comprehensive medical history, physical, and neurological examination are usually sufficient for the specialist doctor to diagnose a migraine. Migraine evaluations may also include imaging tests, such as CT and MRI scans, if the condition is complex or suddenly becomes severe.
Treatment The goal of any migraine treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent new episodes. Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, etc., as well as medication, either preventive or for pain relief, contribute to managing migraines. Botox as a Treatment for Migraines Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists to treat expression lines, is approved by European and Greek health authorities for the treatment of chronic migraines (migraines lasting more than 15 days a month). It is the same substance but used for a different treatment, performed by a specialist doctor. Botox is injected with very fine needles into specific points, subcutaneously or into the muscles, in the head and neck area. This treatment, carried out under strict medical supervision, can reduce the frequency of migraines and the intensity of their symptoms. Read also... Botox
Teeth Grinding What is Bruxism? The well-known grinding or clenching of teeth that occurs unconsciously during the day, when you are awake, or during the night, describes the scientific term bruxism. Bruxism - teeth grinding, is an involuntary, particularly annoying behavior, which can also cause significant damage to the teeth. Very often the patient is unaware that they are grinding their teeth – especially when it happens at night.
Who is affected by teeth grinding? Teeth grinding affects children and adults, men and women. It is more common in children but usually subsides with adulthood. It is a common pathological condition, estimated to affect 10% of adults and 15% of children.
Teeth Grinding: Causes The causes of bruxism are not fully understood. However, it is estimated that they are a combination of physical, psychological, and genetic factors. Excessive stress, emotional tension, as well as certain medications are implicated in bruxism, while there is evidence that in some cases it is due to problems with neurotransmitter function in the brain.
Symptoms of Bruxism Symptoms of teeth grinding include: Flattened, cracked, or fractured teeth. Teeth with enamel wear. Increased pain or sensitivity in the teeth. Jaw pain. Tight jaw muscles. Headache. Pain resembling earache. Damage to the inside of the cheek from chewing.
Teeth Grinding: Diagnosis The diagnosis of teeth grinding is made during a regular dental check-up, where the dentist can identify signs that indicate you are grinding your teeth, and by evaluating the condition, will determine whether or not to refer you for treatment.
Treatment In many cases, teeth grinding does not require treatment. In severe cases, however, a dental approach such as splints or the reshaping of chewing surfaces may be necessary. Additionally, stress management and behavior modification can help manage bruxism. Botox and Teeth Grinding In severe cases of bruxism, injectable botox appears to help when other treatments are not effective. Injections of botulinum toxin A (Botox) into the masseter and temporal muscles can reduce the phenomena of bruxism, as well as the pain it causes. "The best treatment for teeth grinding is always personalized for each patient"
Bibliography https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/botox-for-migraine/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32809622/#:~:text=Migraine%20is%20a%20genetically%20influenced,sensitivity%20to%20light%20and%20sound. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/headache/migraine-headaches https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0020653920332044 https://botulinumtoxin.gr/page.php?pid=167
How long should I wait to see results from botox treatment for my migraine?
You should wait up to 6 months to see results.
Can coffee after dinner or a drink in the evening affect the bruxism I experience?
Yes, stimulant substances such as caffeine and alcohol in the evening can worsen bruxism.
