Fainting and trouble eating after botox 10 years ago. Should I try again?

Question

Hello, I’ve booked an appointment to treat my frown lines this Thursday, however I’m extremely nervous.I’m 35 years old. The first time I tried Botox was 10 years ago. After the injection I stood up and sat on a chair and then fainted. My heart rate dropped and I was given an oxygen mask until my heart rate increased. That night I had some difficulty eating, I felt as though I couldn’t swallow. The same thing happened the next night . Shall I try again?

Fernando Ovalle Jr., MD · Answer

Hello, in my opinion you are describing what is called vasovagal syncope, or fainting due to your body's extreme reaction usually to an emotional trigger (the sight of needles, blood, etc). Other things such as dehydration and rapid postural changes (or "standing up too fast") can cause rapid physiologic shifts in your body's blood pressure, etc and also contribute to this phenomenon. It may or may not happen again after a simple medical procedure such as Botox injections or a blood draw, so if you were to try again I would recommend ensuring you are well hydrated, taking everything very slowly with deep breaths, perhaps using a stress ball or listening to music before/during the procedure.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Some patients are more nervous before injections than others.  Try cool compresses to the treatment areas.  Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth during injections.  If indicated you may benefit from ProNox.  Your injector's assistant may also try tapping as a distraction.  Be sure to get up slowly after treatment.  I encourage you to discuss your previous experience with your injector prior to treatment.  The difficulty eating is not typical with Botox for frown lines.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!From your history, you may have suffered vaso-vagal syncope which is manifested by a drop in heart rate and blood pressure leading to fainting, often in reaction to a stressful trigger, such as your previous botox injection. It is the most common cause of fainting. Some individuals who undergo injectable treatments can be pretreated with anti-anxiety medication if requested (but cannot drive). It may be wise to call your physician for advice before your visit.You are 10 years older and can probably handle the injections much better now.Best wishes...

Fainting and trouble eating after botox 10 years ago. Should I try again?

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Fainting and trouble eating after botox 10 years ago. Should I try again?

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