The modern fountain of youth - Botox, or, should I say, fountain of unwanted side effects!

Whether you are considering botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) for treating a medical condition such as spastic torticollis, or just for a cosmetic procedure, it is best to know that in addition to the wanted effects there are many possible side effects that could take place.

If any of the following side effects occur, please contact your doctor immediately:

- difficulty with swallowing.
- difficult, burning, or painful              urination.
- unusual urge to urinate more often.
- side or lower back pain.
- decreased blinking.
- irritation of the cornea (colored portion) of the eyes.
- turning outward or inward of the edge of the eyelids.
- difficulty with breathing or speaking.
- muscle weakness.
- dryness of the eyes.
- inability to close the eyelids completely.
- bladder pain.
- bloody or cloudy urine.

Some of the following side effects do not require medical attention and should decrease with time. If not, it is advised that you get them checked:

- blue or purplish bruise on the eyelids.
- drooping of the upper eyelids (which is quite common).
- irritation or watering of the eyes.
- sensitivity of the eyes to light.
- body aches or pain.
- chills.
- cough, fever, sneezing, or sore throat.
- ear congestion.
- headache.
- loss of voice.
- nasal congestion.
- neck pain.
- runny nose.
- unusual tiredness or weakness.
- body aches or pain.
- chills.
- congestion.
- cough.
- diarrhea.
- itching skin.
- joint pain.
- loss of appetite.
- sweating.
- tender, swollen glands in the neck.
- trouble sleeping.
- trouble swallowing.
- voice changes.
- vomiting.
- eye pointing upward or downward instead of straight ahead.
- muscle weakness.
- pain in the arms.
- skin rash.
- swelling of the eyelid skin.
- nausea.
- nervousness.
- painful or difficult urination.
- shivering.
- dryness or soreness of the throat.
- fear.
- fever.
- general feeling of discomfort or illness.
- headache.
- heavy bleeding from the place of injection.

Less common or rare side effects include:
- swelling of the eyelids, bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, painBotox (onabotulinumtoxinA) should only be used by a capable doctor. It poses serious danger if done incorrectly. It is best to take your time looking for a doctor who has experience and has satisfied clients. A good doctor that has had the proper training can 1) help prevent and decrease any unwanted side effects 2 ) is able to determine whether this procedure is right for you.

It is also advised that you take your time thinking about how this procedure could impact your life and whether or not you can deal with potential side effects, just like any other major cosmetic / medical change.