Latest news with #DrJoanneDarke
The Independent
a day ago
- Health
- The Independent
String of negative botox reactions prompts health chiefs to issue warning
A health warning has been issued after several people in the North East of England experienced adverse reactions to botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been alerted to cases in County Durham where patients sought medical attention for reactions including severe eyelid drooping, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, and lethargy. These symptoms reportedly emerged weeks after receiving the injections. While the source of the reactions remains under investigation, there is no indication that the product itself was contaminated. The UKHSA has advised clinicians to remain vigilant for signs of botulism in individuals who have recently undergone aesthetic procedures. Prompt identification is crucial to ensure timely treatment, which may involve administering an anti-toxin. Dr Joanne Darke, consultant in health protection with the UKHSA, emphasised the seriousness of the condition, stating, "Botulism is a rare infection, but it can be serious." 'It is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. 'There are effective treatments available. 'If you have had a recent treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 or A&E for further advice and seek treatment. 'It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed. It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner.' Amanda Healy, County Durham director of public health, said: 'We are working closely with colleagues at UKHSA to investigate the cause of these adverse reactions and to ensure all possible steps are taken to prevent more people becoming unwell.' People considering an aesthetic treatment are reminded that practitioners should wear protective equipment and wash their hands, should carry out a pre-consultation, should be prepared to share their qualifications and should require a consent form. Earlier this year, a petition was launched to crackdown on 'unregulated' cosmetic treatments like botox and lip fillers. It was backed by Conservative MP Bradley Thomas who warned of an "emergent healthcare crisis" involving unregulated cosmetic treatments such as Botox and lip fillers on high streets. He told the Commons that the demand for non-surgical aesthetic treatments is being "partially fuelled by social media and societal pressures on young people".
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Health chiefs warn of terrifying Botox complication that can lead to paralysis - after 14 people suffer reaction
Health officials today sounded the alarm over a chilling consequence of Botox injections. More than a dozen victims in northern England in recent weeks have reported suffering issues like severe eyelid drooping, double vision, trouble swallowing, slurred speech and lethargy. While still under investigation the reactions are believed to be linked to a paralysis-triggering bacterial infection following the aesthetic treatment. The illness is caused by the same toxins that give the injections their wrinkle busting powers impairing a patient's nerves. The 14 cases, from County Durham and Darlington have been reported in the days and weeks after the injections were delivered, health chiefs said. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it's not currently believed that the product used was contaminated, a factor known to increase the risk of botulism from injections. Instead, officials have told clinicians to look out for botulism in people who have had recent aesthetic procedures so they can have the appropriate treatment, which includes receiving an anti-toxin. Dr Joanne Darke, consultant in health protection with the UKHSA, said: 'Botulism is a rare infection, but it can be serious. 'It is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. 'There are effective treatments available. 'If you have had a recent treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 or A&E for further advice and seek treatment. 'It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed. It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner.' Amanda Healy, County Durham director of public health, added: 'We are working closely with colleagues at UKHSA to investigate the cause of these adverse reactions and to ensure all possible steps are taken to prevent more people becoming unwell.' Botox is the most recognised brand of the substance Botulinum toxin, which is used to paralyse facial muscles with the aim of reducing wrinkles. It's typically safe when used by a trained medical professional to paralyse muscles for a range of treatments. However, if the toxins are administered incorrectly, it can cause symptoms such as weakness, difficulty in breathing and/or swallowing. This can lead to paralysis and even death if it's severe and not treated, with up to one in ten cases of botulism being fatal.
