Celine Dion has had to cancel her European tour after being diagnosed with stiff person syndrome. The rare neurological disease is incurable but symptoms can be treated.
She says that the condition affects "every aspect of [her] daily life" as she suffers from spasms, which have impacted her ability to perform. Celine is receiving medical support to treat her symptoms.
She also said that the condition has put strain on her vocal cords. The 54-year-old singer made an announcement on social media, letting fans know about her diagnosis.
In an Instagram video, Celine explained: "Hello everyone, I'm sorry it's taken me so long to reach out to you. I miss you all so much and can’t wait to be on stage talking to you in person. As you know I’ve always been an open book and I wasn’t ready to say anything before but I'm ready now
"I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time and it's been really difficult for me to face my challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through."
She went on to explain that there is a lot that is still to be learned about the condition, and that she is experiencing spasms that affect every aspect of her daily life - including walking. However, she added that she has a great team of doctors working alongside her and is being supported by her "precious children".
This may leave some wanting to know more about the rare and currently incurable condition. So, here is everything you need to know about stiff person syndrome including symptoms and treatment.
What is stiff person syndrome?
Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder in which a person suffers spasms as well as an increased sensitivity to stimuli, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
It is rare and typically impacts people in their fourth to sixth decade of life, according to University College London. In advance cases, spasms could have an impact on breathing.
Currently, there is no cure for the condition, but there are treatments that can ease symptoms and make life more manageable for sufferers. SPS affects twice as many women as men.
Stiff person syndrome symptoms
Symptoms include spasms and an increased sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch, and emotional distress. Sufferers may also become hunched over and stiffened and can - in some cases - become too disabled to walk or move.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke adds that those who suffer SPS may become "afraid to leave the house" due to their increased sensitivity.
Treating stiff person syndrome
Treatments that have been used for the condition, according to the US NINDS, may include:
- anti-anxiety drugs
- muscle relaxants
- anticonvulsants
- pain relievers
University College London adds that there are a number of neuro-support groups which "provide advice, information and support to people with a neurological condition." This includes Scotland's NHS Inform as well as a UK and Ireland-based Stiff Person Syndrome Support Group.
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