We know all about having Botox for smoothing out our wrinkles, but there are other reasons for using this drug, too.
It’s not only vanity that has us using Botox. Yes, many of us do use it to get rid of frown lines and lighten up laugh lines … for years it’s been considered an essential in the fight against aging. But there are some more serious disorders that can be treated with it, too. It’s also effective in treating a range of medical conditions … ranging from migraines and back pain to excessive sweating.
According to Dr Gertruida Van Niekerk, a plastic surgeon at The Specialist Laser and Cosmetic Institute (SCIN), Botox has some surprising uses that are benefitting millions of people across the globe every day. And she unpacks a few of these here.
Eyelid and facial spasms
Botox is the most commonly used medical treatment for eyelid and facial spasms.
Excessive sweating
Doctors noticed that patients being treated with Botox for facial spasms were sweating less. It was subsequently discovered that Botox is a successful therapy for people with a condition called severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis – or excessive sweating, and has since become a common treatment for excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, and feet.
Chronic migraines It’s been approved as a treatment for migraines and is effective in reducing episodes in migraine sufferers.
Neck spasms
Even before Botox was approved for frown lines between the eyebrows, it was approved for its use in treating a disorder called cervical dystonia, which is characterized by abnormal head position and severe neck pain.
Crossed-eyes
An interesting use of Botox is for the treatment of a condition called strabismus, or crossed-eyes, where the eyes don’t line up in the same direction – one may be looking straight ahead, while the other turns upward, downward, or to one side. Treatment is done by Ophthalmologists.
Overactive bladder
It’s one of the most effective treatments for an overactive bladder. These injections are done by urologists.
Details: For more info, visit wembleyclinic.co.za
