Re: New to forum
Lucy,If you have SD the botox will really help. It may take a few injections to find the correct dosage, but it will help. The relief is temporary, but with patience you can find a schedule that will make your life more liveable. Ask lots of questions. Typically, folks start with 2.5 units , total dosage either on one side or split between two cords. Thereafter you see what the result is and make decisions accordingly. There are many folks on this BBS who have "been there, done that" who can help you with suggestions, but in the end, it's your voice and only you will really know what works. But we'll be there for you. John
Re: New to forum
Hello Lucy, I don't think I can do anything to quiet your fears about getting Botox for the first time. I remember the first time I went for Botox as if it were yesterday. I really dreaded the injection - wasn't sure that I was making the right choice, and probably suffered through all the other ideas that have been running through your head. I can tell you that I was given a very low dose of Valium for my first injection. That made the time seem a little less offensive while I waiting. Once inside the doctor's exam room, sitting in the chair the time seemed to fly. The nurse was wonderful, the doctor experienced, and the injection was given in such a short amount of time that I remember asking, "Are you through already?" I walked out of the office in amazement. I'm sure you will, too. Keep us informed about your results afterward. I had no one to keep in contact with, and I could have panicked because I was 6 weeks with no voice, but knowing the injection would wear off, fortunately, I managed ok My husband, on the other hand, was beginning to think I would never be able to speak again. I did, and my voice was great for about 7 months. Hopefully your will have the same results. However, not all get good results from the first injection. Think positive and know that we are all here for you. Good luck. Lylia Bennett
Re: New to forum
I have had over thirty injections over the last ten years. I remember the first one very well. My voice was so bad noone could understand me. I was given 5 units in each vocal cord. The next morning I spoke to my husband and my voice was clear. After the terrible struggle for three years, it was a miracle. My last injections in Oct. 2000 was .625 in each vocal cord. Everyone is different and you will have to monitor your own progress. Over the years I continued to cut back because of the breathiness afterwards. Some people take ten units in each vocal cord to achieve a good voice. I believe the majority of people take about 2.5 units. Some doctors deaden the outside of the throat before they inject and some don't. I find that deadening the outside makes the injections much easier. I never had any pain with the injection and it was over in a few minutes. Hope this help. Good luck.
Re: New to forum
Lucy, boy do I know where you are coming from. I was diagnosed with AD/SD this summer and I had my first Botox injection in September. I just received my second Botox injection on the 18th. I remember how scared and nervous I was before the first injection. No one can take away your fears, but I can tell you this...it was not as bad as I thought it would be. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, there was no blood from the shot, and it was not even painful. I am extremily glad that I have been getting the Botox shots because it has really helped my voice. Let us know how it goes. Stacy
Re: New to forum
Lucy, I too understand the fears. I think most of us are that way. I don't like shots anyway, and having anone probe or inject about the head and face is really scary to me. I am certain though like the posts before me, that it will not be painfull for you. It will be easier than you think. Trust me. The results though will most likely be worth the effort. Tightness and strangled voice should lessen. I have found the swallowing difficulty to be a non-problem. I think most would agree. As stated in a previous post though, don't make the mistake that I did. My first injection really didn't produce good results. Keep trying. My second was wonderful. I and others here understand the hopelessness that you feel. Botox, though will help. At least now you know how to manage this monster! Let us know how you do please.
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