AIIMS-trained Bengaluru neurosurgeon reveals how a salon session can give you a stroke: ‘Ensure your neck…'

Believe it or not, you can suffer a stroke while you are treating yourself to a relaxing spa session in a parlour. Sharing the news of a woman in Hyderabad who suffered a stroke after a hair wash in a salon, Bengaluru-based neurosurgeon Dr Arun L. Naik explained the phenomenon of how a process celebrating beauty can turn deadly.

What Causes This Deadly Phenomenon?

He stated that when your neck is hyperextended or awkwardly positioned while lying in a salon sink, it can cause damage to the arteries in the neck, especially the vertebral artery. This can potentially disrupt blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke. It can also cause symptoms such as dizziness, blurry vision, numbness, and slurred speech as well.

Precautions to Reduce the Risk of Beauty Parlour Stroke Syndrome

Keep the Neck Properly Supported

During a salon hair wash, make sure your neck is comfortably supported rather than hanging backward over the basin. Request a folded towel, cushion, or other suitable support beneath your neck to minimise excessive bending.

Position the Wash Basin Correctly

Ask the stylist to adjust the salon chair or basin whenever possible so that your head and neck remain in a natural, relaxed position. Avoid allowing the neck to remain stretched or tilted backward for an extended period.

Change Positions When Necessary

Remaining in an awkward position for too long can place unnecessary strain on the neck. If you begin to feel discomfort, ask for a short break and reposition yourself before continuing the hair-washing process.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs

Be alert to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, unusual neck discomfort, weakness, vision changes, or other unexpected sensations during or following a salon hair wash. Inform the stylist immediately and seek prompt medical evaluation if concerning symptoms develop.

Inform the Salon About Relevant Medical Concerns

People with a previous history of neck problems or blood-vessel-related conditions should inform salon staff beforehand. Where appropriate, consider safer alternatives, such as having the hair washed while sitting upright with a handheld shower or sprayer, rather than leaning the neck backward over a basin.

According to his website, Dr Arun L Naik is a neurosurgeon and spine surgeon based in Bengaluru. He has conducted over 10,000 brain, spine and nerve surgeries. He has training in neurosurgery from the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.