I have been receiving Botox injections into my neck for dystonia for over 5 years now . Without these injections I was not able to go out alone, drive or work. I was off sick for 18 months as the dose was gradually increased and eventually allowed me to live a normal life again. I am 60 and still receive Botox every 3 months at hospital. I can now work and live a normal life because of this. I have never had Botox for cosmetic reasons. I have been very fortunate, as the only side effect I get are very transient flu-like symptoms for 2 to 3 days post injection. The symptoms do not stop me going to work or carrying on as normal though and soon pass. So sorry to hear that others are having such severe symptoms.