A Kentucky woman wants to spread the word that a common hair tie can cause serious health issues.

People wear hair ties around the wrist for convenience if they need to pull their hair back while on the go, such as Audree Kopp did in the midst of moving.

Kopp told WLKY that a bump appeared on her wrist, which initially she thought might be a spider bite. The area on her wrist became red and the swelling increased. The infection did not respond to antibiotics, so emergency surgery was performed.

Dr. Amit Gupta drained the abscess that had formed on Kopp’s wrist. The doctor believes the hair tie collected bacteria, which made its way into Kopp’s skin pores and hair follicles, leading to a serious infection.

Kopp is expected to fully recover, but now will only wear hair ties around her wrist that are easy to keep clean.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Blooper celebrates the Atlanta Brave’s 5-0 win over the New York Mets during a MLB game Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Truist Park. This year, the venue is a first-time host of the MLB All-Star game. (Daniel Varnado for the AJC)

Credit: Daniel Varnado for the AJC

Featured

Braves first baseman Matt Olson (left) is greeted by Ronald Acuña Jr. after batting during the MLB Home Run Derby as part of the All-Star Game festivities on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC