A visit to the hairdresser is usually seen as a relaxing treat, but for a small group of people, it can carry a hidden risk known as Beauty Parlor Stroke Syndrome (BPSS). This rare condition, first identified by neurologist Michael Weintraub in 1993, can occur when clients sit at awkward angles during hair washing, particularly at the backwash basins.
BPSS can potentially lead to a stroke, a serious condition where the blood supply to the brain is reduced. During shampooing, when a person tilts their head back over the basin, the neck may be overextended or rotated in such a way that it compresses or tears major blood vessels supplying the brain. This can cause a reduction in blood flow, leading to brain damage or stroke. In some cases, bone spurs in the neck area may also contribute to the risk by compressing these arteries.
While stroke is more commonly associated with older individuals or those with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, BPSS can happen to anyone, even those without these risk factors. A 2016 study found only ten reported instances of BPSS between 2002 and 2013, highlighting how rare the condition is.
Signs of BPSS include headache, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and paralysis on one side of the body. These symptoms can sometimes be delayed, making it difficult to distinguish BPSS from a regular stroke.
If you experience discomfort while using a backwash sink, there are precautions you can take. Ask the stylist to use neck support or lean forward over the sink to avoid extending your neck backward. Inform your hairdresser if you feel any pain or discomfort during the process, and request a gentle shampoo.
While BPSS is rare, it’s essential to be aware of the risks. A trip to the salon is usually safe and beneficial for both your hair and mental well-being, but it’s always better to take steps to ensure your comfort and safety.
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