Botox

This passage describes Botox and how it is used to treat wrinkles.

Lexile Level: 1270L

Categories: Sports & Health Science & Technology

Although a lot of people recognize Botox as a temporary treatment for facial wrinkles, not so many realize its other medical uses. Some wrinkles are caused by repeated muscle contractions. Frown or laugh lines occur when someone has frowned or laughed often enough that the creases caused by these activities become permanent. Injections of Botox work to stop wrinkles temporarily because Botox does not allow muscle contractions. When the muscles can no longer crease the skin, wrinkles cannot be formed. Doctors have found that this same paralysis of muscles can prevent migraine headaches, as well as other debilitating pain. In addition, Botox can be used to treat severe or excessive perspiration because it stops over-stimulation of sweat glands. Researchers do not yet know all the uses of Botox, but they believe it will be helpful in treating other conditions that result in muscle spasms in different parts of the body. Because Botox injections can last for four to six months, they could cause significant improvements by alleviating a variety of physical problems.