One of the more common uses of Botox is cosmetic and is often used to address the issue of wrinkles on the face. Doctors will inject this toxin, which is Clostridium botulinum, into the muscle, which in turn paralyzes it in place for up to four months at a time. Some of the controversy surrounding the process of using this as a form of cosmetic treatment lies in the fact that this very toxin is the one found in botulism, which is a form of food poisoning.
In addition to cosmetic uses, though, Botox can be used for a variety of other reasons. One such use by some Phoenix, AZ family practice physicians is the ability to use Botox for overactive bladder.
Overactive bladder is characterized by a bladder that squeezes too much and often without any warning. The result of this may include incontinence, frequent urination and an urgent need for release. Botox can help when traditional medications don’t work or cannot be tolerated. Since it is still a relatively new treatment, you may need to ask your Phoenix, AZ physician about this as an option. The way it works is when the Botox is injected into the bladder, the muscle relaxes and allows the bladder to properly store waste, reducing any episodes of urgent urination.
The Food & Drug Administration has overseen a number of clinical trial participants undergo the procedure in order to determine how well this new form of treatment works. After 12 weeks, on average, patients treated with the Botox had greatly reduced the urgent need to urinate or incontinence in those suffering from overactive bladder than those taking the placebo.
While your family practice doctor may need to do a cystoscopy to inject the bladder, it is a relatively simple procedure and the results may be well worth any discomfort for those suffering the effects of an overactive bladder. It should be noted that you may need to ask your Phoenix, AZ family practice doctor about side effects, as they may include painful urination, the inability to completely empty the bladder and more frequent urinary tract infections. In some instances, patients may need to take preventative antibiotics ahead of getting Botox for overactive bladder. It is important to ask plenty of questions ahead of the procedure to ensure that you know just what you are getting into with this form of treatment.
Botox Treatments at Family Practice Specialists
At FPS, we are more than your family physician! We are your child’s pediatrician, your dermatologist, your x-ray techs, in-house lab, cardiac function experts, optometrists, and more! Want more information on what Botox can do for you? Give us a call or stop by:
4350 E Camelback Rd
Suite F100
Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-955-8700
