Beauty Parlor Stroke

If you have your hair washed at a salon, you could be putting yourself at risk...

If you've ever had your hair washed at a salon, it sure can feel good, but it can also be dangerous. The position your neck is in when it's leaned back into that sink can interfere with blood flow to the brain, and lead to some scary stuff. It's known in the medical field as Beauty Parlor Stroke. It's pretty rare, but neurologists see an average of five to six cases a year, and it can easily be prevented. It's important the neck has cushioned support, and that you are elevated to the right height for the shampoo bowl. Salon owner Tony Botticelli uses neck pads and chair cushions, and makes sure his clients don't spend more than three minutes in that position. Having extensive dental work with an awkward neck position can be problematic too.

Symptoms of Beauty Parlor Stroke are dizziness, imbalance, numbing or tingling, or asymmetry in the face or eyes. If you experience any of those symptoms during or after a trip to the salon or dentist, see a neurologist right away.

Source: Dr. Michael Weintraub, The Journal of the American Medical Association