Botox – it’s not your average injectable any more.
Ranked as one of the nation’s most popular FDA-approved treatments for facial lines and wrinkles, Botox, believe it or not, is showing promise in the treatment of migraines and even benign enlargement of the male prostate. One doctor experimenting with Botox decided to inject a cancer patient with Botox in hopes of providing relief from headaches. Oddly, the patient started regrowing hair that had fallen out during chemotherapy.
In fact, Botox has a surprising number of medical and cosmetic uses and represents $1.3 billion worth of business worldwide. Botox is also used in the treatment of a “gummy smile,” where the gums of the person smiling are prominent. The injectable weakens the upper lip so that it doesn’t rise to the same height as the smile to reveal the gumline. In Asian patients, it can be used to treat the masseter muscle, and therefore decrease the width of their lower face. People who have excessive underarm perspiration also report benefit from Botox as it blocks the release of chemicals that stimulate the sweat glands.
Botox also helps to control an overactive bladder by causing the bladder muscles to relax. This effect increases the bladder’s ability to store urine and aids by decreasing accidents caused by leakage or incontinence. Botox also has been proven to shrink the size of hamhock-sized calf muscles, reduce muscle spasms, and improve men’s “going problem” associated with an enlarged prostate. Botox does this by relaxing the muscles around the prostate gland and taking the pressure off the urethra. Botox also helps to resolve joint disorders and it also reduces foot pain and protects the ball of the foot.
The uses of Botox are far from exhausted and each new discovery in its use only adds value to this highly prized injectable. Before committing to any procedure involving Botox, always consult first with a qualified medical doctor or cosmetic physician.
