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Can Botox for Relief of Migraines (Forehead, Neck, Shoulders) Cause Optic Nerve Damage?

asked 1 year ago by Shannon in Washington in Washington State
Latest answer by Eugene Mandrea, MD
Question viewed 649 times
Tags: eyes, blurry vision, dizzy, migraine, nerve damage, vision

I have been receiving Botox injections every 3 months for relief of migraines for the past two years from a neurologist. The injections are to the forehead, down the back of the neck and a few on the top of the shoulders. In the past few weeks I've been experiencing dizziness and blurred vision. When I went to my optometrist, he suggested that I may be experiencing optic nerve damage and had scheduled me for a Field Test. Can Botox cause optic nerve damage? If so, is it longterm?

3 answers to Can Botox for Relief of Migraines (Forehead, Neck, Shoulders) Cause Optic Nerve Damage?

+1

Nerve damage from Botox

The fact that your injections were done by a Neurologist makes it unlikely that he injected any muscles of eye movement. Blurred vision, unfortunately, can happen after Botox injections, due mostly to eyelid droop. Optic nerve damage from Botox injections has not been reported, nor is it pharmacologically possible, I recommend that you discuss your problem with the Neurologist who treated you. Most likely, the problem will resolve itself in a few weeks or months. more
Eugene Mandrea, MD

Chicago Dermatologist
+1

Optic nerve damage secondary to Botulinum Toxin (Dysport or Botox)

While Botulinum Toxin (Dysport or Botox) can cause ocular muscle imbalance that can result in dizziness or blurred vision, it is unlikely that it can cause optic nerve damage.  
Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+1

Botox and Blurred Vision/Dizziness

Hi Shannon, I have not heard of any reports of Botox causing optic nerve damage.  Please keep us informed of your progress.  Good luck and I hope that your symptoms resolve rapidly. Dr. P
Michael A. Persky, MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

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