I know Botox caused tinnitus... how long will it last or is it permanent?

Question

I had botox 16 days ago for cosmetic purposes. 4 days later I had the worst headache ever and tinnitus in my left ear. I rarely had headaches before ..and I have never had ear problems. Ever. I have reported the effects.I am scared. I got on top of the headaches,fine,a documented side effect..but the tinnitus persists. I have seen other people complain of this on the internet but doctors say it's not connected. I do believe it is. My question is how long will this last? Please be honest.

John Tang, MD · Answer

Headaches though uncommon have been reported with Botox and this typically last up to 2 weeks before they usually resolve spontaneously.  I have never seen tinnitus, however, in the 15 years of I have been injecting Botox (though anything is possible).  If you have the tinnitus for 2 weeks now, I would recommend that you see an ENT specialist to have this formally evaluated.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

However, you should know that Botox is actually used to treat tinnitus.  Tinnitus is commonly associate with hearing loss.  It is far more likely that the tinnitus is not caused by botox.  If the botox did cause the tinnitus, we could advise you that like all botox related effects, it will wear off when the botox effects wear off.  It is far more likely that the two events (getting botox treatment and becoming aware of tinnitus are not related).  I recommend that you see your otolaryngologist or audiologist to be assessed for the tinnitus.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox doesn't effect the inner ear. If it persists, I recommend following up with your Doctor for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Oxana Popescu, MD · Answer

Hello Diane,
I am sorry to hear that you have such serious symptoms. My advice would be for you to see your PCP and obtain a medical evaluation for your tinnitus.
It should not be a side effect of the Botox treatment. 
Currently there are ongoing clinical studies for the treatment of tinnitus with Botox. In addition one of the very well known therapeutic applications of Botox is the treatment of migraine headaches.
Stay well,

Oxana Popescu MD

Vitality Natural Wellness and Medspa - Mansfield · Answer

Botox can be used to treat tinnitus by relaxing the masseter muscle. I have heard of headaches occuring after injection however but typically resolve within a few days. I would recommend seeing an ENT or evaluation by your PCP.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Headaches have been reported with Botox but tinnitus is not a known side effect. However, i tell my patients any medicine can do anything to anybody so if it is the Botox just rest assured that it is temporary as all Botox effects and side effects are

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I know Botox caused tinnitus... how long will it last or is it permanent?

Answers (6)

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