Botulinum Toxin (BOTOX) for Cluster Headache

[CGTMHI]

In 1998 I had sinus surgery and the membrane between my brain and sinus was sliced.  To make a long story short, I ended up having major brain surgery to repair the damage.  Since then, I have been experiencing what my Neurologist labels "cluster" headaches.  Recently I saw a Neuro. specialist who informed me that I may be a candidate for Botox treatment.  Is this a valid and reasonable treatment for cluster headaches?  I am concerned because I am allergic to darned near everthing on earth - dust, pollen, animal hair, adhesive tape, tissue paper, sun, etc., etc.  With all of my allergies, would it be safe for me to use botox?

If not, are there any other treatment options for these horrible, debilitating headaches?  These headaches are having an impact on my job and my family.  I've missed so much work my job is in jeopardy and not being able to get over to see my Grandsons because I'm flat on my back with stabbing head pain, just kills me! I don't know what to do.  HELP

Thanks so much for letting me vent.
Cindy

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

Sounds like you had quite a tough postop course. Not exactly sure that these are really cluster headaches which typically occur in men and are defined by specific characteristics such as duration and frequency. At any rate, the premise of botox injections for headache is to relax the muscles around your head to decrease the tension/tightness which is thought to contribute to the pain. If you've maxed out on medications, this may be worth a try. We've had a number of patients with different types of headache report symptomatic relief from the botox. Make sure you go to a headache clinic where they are familiar with the procedure. Good luck.