A routine hair dye treatment turned into a life-threatening nightmare for Manchester mother-of-two Julie McCabe, who suffered a severe allergic reaction that left her fighting for her life in an induced coma.
The Day That Changed Everything
What began as a typical beauty routine quickly escalated into a medical emergency when Julie used a hair dye containing paraphenylenediamine (PPD). Within minutes of application, she experienced difficulty breathing and collapsed, prompting her frantic husband to dial 999.
"It was absolutely terrifying," recalled Russell McCabe. "One moment she was fine, the next she was struggling to breathe and losing consciousness. I knew immediately this was something serious."
Rushed to Hospital
Paramedics rushed Julie to Royal Preston Hospital where doctors made the grim discovery that the chemical had triggered a catastrophic allergic reaction. Her throat had swollen dangerously, restricting her airway, while chemical burns covered her scalp and face.
Medical staff made the difficult decision to place Julie in an induced coma to stabilise her condition and give her body time to recover from the traumatic reaction.
The Hidden Danger in Hair Dye
PPD, the chemical responsible for Julie's reaction, is commonly found in many permanent hair dyes despite being banned in several European countries. The substance can cause severe reactions even in people who have used hair colouring products safely for years.
Warning signs of PPD allergy include:
- Severe itching or burning sensation on scalp
- Swelling of face, eyelids or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Redness, blistering or chemical burns
- Dizziness or feeling faint
A Family's Agonising Wait
As Julie remains in critical condition, her family maintains a constant vigil at her bedside. Her daughter has temporarily moved back home to support her father during this traumatic period.
"We're taking it day by day," Russell shared. "The doctors are doing everything they can, but we know it's going to be a long recovery. We just want other people to be aware of this danger."
Important Safety Advice
Medical experts emphasise the importance of conducting a patch test 48 hours before using any hair dye product, even if you've used the same brand previously. Allergies can develop at any time, and what was once safe can suddenly become dangerous.
The NHS recommends seeking immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of allergic reaction after using hair products, as symptoms can rapidly escalate into life-threatening anaphylaxis.
