| First Botox Injection! |  | ||
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Posted by: Joe S. ® 04/16/2003, 15:50:36 Author Profile Mail author |
Well, some things in life tend to move faster than others!! Having been diagnosed with AD/SD only 2 weeks ago, I'm scheduled to see Dr. Grillone at the BU Med Center on Monday April 21st for my first Botox injection. Seems rather quick to jump into the first shot, but after having read the bulletin board for the past two weeks, it seems to be the right thing to do. Many thanks to all who have shared their experiences, mainly positive, in this interesting activity!! Any suggestions from the group on what I should expect before/during/after the first injection. I've heard a lot about breathiness, and I think after speaking with the Dr. today I understand it. Not quite sure how long it lasts and why it occurs!! Also does your voice come back to somewhat normalcy after a few days or weeks?? I also have questions about the size of the dosage,as this wasn't covered in my meeting today, but I recall it being mentioned many times in your writings. How is this gauged and should I inquire as to the dosage? Do they usually start out with small amounts and work up, or vice-versa? Should I get someone to come along for this procedure, or is it just the quick "dentist" visit is has been refered to? The procedure was briefly explained to me, so if anyone has the time to better descibe it, I would appreciate it. As I am a school counselor, and use my voice a lot, it was suggested that the first day of our Spring vacation would be a great time to have it done! I'll let everyone know if I agree with that, after the fact!!! Thanks for listening
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Posted by: cheryl nichols ® 04/16/2003, 17:46:37 Author Profile Mail author |
I hope all goes well for you! Please keep us posted.
On Monday (April 14) I had my 2nd Botox shot. This time the doctor lowered the dosage to 1.75. I am now breathy, but able to communicate, which is important since I am a teacher. My first botox shot took almost 4 weeks before I could comfortable speak, without getting out of breath. It was worth it though. I hope you find the same thing. Cheryl AD/SD |
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Posted by: JOHN S. BEEMAN ® 04/16/2003, 17:51:21 Author Profile Mail author |
Joe - Glad things went well. On the technical side, the botox destroys the nerver receptor that receive the chemical the body produces that causes the spasm. The destruction of the receptors prevents the spasms. However, the receptors regenerate over time. Thus, over time, the ability to "control" the vocal cord muscle also returns. Unfortunately, it eventually returns to the spasm state - the receptors having all returned and the cycle in ready to be repeated. After the injection - typically within one day, while the muscle is "limp" or flacid, you've lost muscle tone (or control) so your voice is breathy. As muscled tone returns, so does your voice.
For me, each shot was different in terms of how long the breathy stage lasted. Rarely did I have a normal voice quickly. Typically, the breathy stage lasted 7-10 days. However, this was after we knew exactly how much botox to inject. My observation has been that doctors tend to start low - on the dosage - and work their way up. (but as you can see from the other person's comment, this isn't always true) But you should ask. I think a key component is to talk to your doctor. Ask these questions and expect answers. I think the Doctors like you to have someone along for the injections- it gives them comfort. Good luck. John Modified by JOHN S. BEEMAN at Wed, Apr 16, 2003, 17:52:16 |
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