Barbers' Stroke Risk: A Concern Or Just A Myth?

Tilting the head back too far into a sink during a haircut can cut off blood flow to the brain, leading to a stroke. This phenomenon is known as beauty parlor stroke syndrome and can also occur during a head massage or hair wash at a salon. While it is rare, it can have devastating consequences for clients.

Tilting the head back too far can restrict blood flow to the brain

Tilting the head back too far can, in rare cases, restrict blood flow to the brain. This phenomenon is known as "beauty parlor stroke syndrome", and it involves extending one's neck over the ledge of a sink, which can diminish blood supply to the brain and potentially cause a stroke. This is caused by a flap-like tear in the vertebral artery, which supplies blood to the brain, leading to a blood clot that blocks blood flow and potentially causes a stroke. However, it is important to note that this is very rare and there is little that can be done to prevent it.

The effect of head position on stroke risk is not entirely clear. Some studies suggest that head-down tilt may improve clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients by increasing cerebral blood flow without causing any obvious adverse events. In these studies, patients were placed in a head-down tilt position of -20 degrees for about 60 minutes, and it was found that neurological function did not deteriorate further, and neurological deficits improved at discharge. Additionally, an increase in cerebral blood flow was observed in the affected areas.

On the other hand, studies have also shown that head-down tilt can cause a decrease in common carotid artery blood flow and a shift in blood volume away from the head. This can lead to cerebral venous congestion, which may reduce cerebral blood flow and cause periodic breathing. The transition from a supine posture to a head-down tilt position can also cause increases in oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide output, respiratory exchange ratio, and tidal volume.

While the risk of stroke from tilting the head back is rare, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions when necessary. For individuals who are at a higher risk of stroke, it may be advisable to avoid extreme head-down tilt positions or to take measures to improve cerebral blood flow, such as regular chiropractic examinations to ensure proper cervical spine alignment.

Vulnerable patients include those over 50, with cervical arthritis, or underlying health conditions

While getting a haircut or a shave at a barbershop is generally safe, certain vulnerable patients may be at a higher risk of experiencing health issues, such as strokes, due to the nature of the services provided. Vulnerable patients include those over 50, individuals with cervical arthritis, and those with underlying health conditions.

Cervical arthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a condition that affects the cervical spine, which consists of the seven stacked vertebrae in the neck. It is a natural consequence of aging, typically beginning in a person's 30s, and becoming more prevalent with age. By the age of 60, about 90% of people have cervical spondylosis. This condition can cause neck pain, stiffness, and, in some cases, more severe complications such as cervical myelopathy and cervical radiculopathy.

For individuals with cervical arthritis, certain movements or positions during a haircut or shave could potentially trigger pain or other symptoms associated with the condition. While cervical arthritis itself does not increase the risk of stroke, the discomfort and restricted mobility it causes may lead patients to adopt positions or perform actions that could indirectly elevate the risk.

Additionally, underlying health conditions can play a significant role in increasing the vulnerability of patients to strokes or other health issues during a barbershop visit. For example, individuals with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes may be more susceptible to health complications if they experience stress or anxiety during the haircut or shave.

It is important to note that the risk of experiencing a stroke or other health issues during a barbershop visit remains relatively low for most individuals. However, for vulnerable patients, including those over 50, with cervical arthritis, or underlying health conditions, taking precautions and being aware of potential triggers can help ensure a safer and more comfortable experience.

Symptoms include loss of vision, dizziness, nausea, and slurred speech

While it is rare, barbers can get strokes due to the positioning of their clients' necks in the sink. This can cause what is known as "beauty parlor stroke syndrome", where extending one's neck over the ledge of a sink can cut off blood flow to the brain.

Strokes are a common cause of death and disability. They occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, resulting in brain cell damage or death. Recognising the signs of a stroke and acting quickly is crucial for improving survival rates and reducing potential disabilities.

The acronym FAST is often used to help people recognise the signs of a stroke:

• Face: Check if the person's face has fallen on one side and if they can smile.
• Arms: Observe if they can raise both arms and keep them raised.
• Speech: Listen for slurred or strange speech.
• Time: Every minute counts, so call emergency services immediately if you notice any of these signs.

In addition to the FAST test, other symptoms of a stroke include:

• Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, hand, or leg on one side of the body.
• Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
• Double vision or vision loss in one or both eyes.
• Vertigo or dizziness.
• Loss of balance or coordination.
• Severe headache, sudden vomiting, or unconsciousness.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment is vital to improving outcomes.

Barbers should use a cushion or pad under the neck to avoid over-extending it

While getting a haircut, people tend to extend their necks over the sink, which can cut off blood flow to the brain and cause a stroke. This phenomenon is known as "beauty parlor stroke syndrome". However, it is a very rare occurrence and there is little one can do to prevent it.

Barbers should take precautions to ensure their clients' safety. One way to do this is by using a cushion or pad under the client's neck to avoid over-extending it. This will help maintain a comfortable and stable position for the client's neck, reducing the risk of diminishing blood supply to the brain.

The cushion or pad can provide support and prevent the neck from bending too far backward or forward. It can also help relax the neck muscles, reducing the likelihood of neck pain or strain. Additionally, it can improve the overall comfort of the client during the haircut, making the experience more enjoyable and relaxing.

By using a cushion or pad, barbers can minimize the risk of their clients experiencing beauty parlor stroke syndrome, ensuring a safer and more pleasant experience. This simple precaution can provide peace of mind for both the barber and the client, allowing them to focus on the haircut without worrying about potential health risks.

The condition is also known as vertebral artery dissection from hyperextension of the neck

Vertebral Artery Dissection (VAD) is a rare cause of stroke in the general population, but it is one of the more common causes of stroke in patients younger than 45 years old. The vertebral artery runs along the back of the neck and supplies the brain and spine with oxygen-rich blood. A vertebral artery dissection occurs when there is a tear in one or more of its three tissue layers, which can affect blood flow and put someone at risk of a life-threatening complication, such as a stroke.

VAD can be caused by hyperextension of the neck, which can happen during a haircut when a person's neck is extended over the ledge of a sink. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "beauty parlor stroke syndrome". However, it is important to note that this is a very rare occurrence and there is little one can do to prevent it. It can also be caused by a wide range of innocuous activities, such as getting out of bed in the morning, stretching, or even sneezing.

The signs and symptoms of VAD can be vague, making diagnosis difficult. However, some common symptoms include acute and severe unilateral neck pain and/or a headache. Neurological symptoms may be delayed or not present at all, but 70% of patients will have some type of neurological deficit that may present late. Lateral medullary syndromes (Wallenberg Syndrome) and cerebellar infarctions are the most common locations for strokes.

Treatment for VAD typically involves anticoagulation, usually with heparin, to prevent stroke. In some cases, thrombolytic therapy may be started if initiated within 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms. Most patients with VAD will achieve a full recovery, although a small percentage may develop recurrent attacks, a major stroke, or die.

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