Learn about the latest health developments of the artist, Celine Dion, and what the media has hidden from her fans
The followers of the international star, Celine Dion, were surprised by the shocking news that saddened everyone, as she announced this news in a statement she posted on her Instagram account. This news was in the context of canceling her concerts within the framework of the “Courage World Tour” that was expected within a year 2024
Where all her followers were surprised that the reason behind her canceling her concerts is because she has a rare disease that affects one in a million people and is called the disease, the stiff person syndrome. .
Stiff person syndrome is very rare, and health experts say, according to a CNN report, that about 1 in a million people have the syndrome, and most neurologists will only see one or two cases in their lifetime.
The first case of stiff person syndrome was reported in the 1950s, and the disease was historically referred to as “stiff man syndrome.” Since then, it has been found to affect women as much as men, and the name has been changed to stiff person syndrome to avoid confusion. The condition can develop at any time. age, but symptoms often begin in the 30s or 40s. Until now, the causes of stiff person syndrome are not known precisely, but people with other autoimmune diseases are considered more susceptible.
And Dion had previously announced in December 2022, through her official account on the Instagram website, the cancellation of many concerts that she was planning to perform during her European tour in February, because she had been suffering from health problems for a long time.
Learn about the latest health developments of the artist, Celine Dion, and what the media has hidden from her fans
“While we are still learning about this rare condition, we now know that it is the cause of my spasms,” she said at the time.
Although she undergoes daily physiotherapy sessions, a source close to the famous singer told CNN that she is “in great pain.”
Announcing her tour’s cancellation on Instagram, Dion was quoted as follows: “I’m so sorry to disappoint you all again. I’m doing everything I can to get my strength back, but touring can be difficult even when you’re 100% healthy.”
She added, “It’s not fair to keep postponing shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best if we just cancel everything now until I’m really ready to get back on stage again. I want you all to know I’m not giving up…and I can’t wait to see you again.”
Stiff person syndrome
Stiff person syndrome causes muscles to stiffen and spasm and increase sensitivity to stimuli such as sound and light, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
“It’s often associated with muscle spasms, which can be severe…and can cause falls, severe pain, and significant disability,” Dr. Emily Sami Mokheiber of the Stiff Person Syndrome Center at Johns Hopkins Medicine previously told CNN.
Learn about the latest health developments of the artist, Celine Dion, and what the media has hidden from her fans
These spasms can be strong enough to break bones, and any fall could result in serious injury.
Who is at risk of developing stiff person syndrome?
Stiff person syndrome is very rare. About 1 in a million people develop the syndrome, Mokheiber said, and most neurologists will only see one or two cases in their lifetime.
The first case of stiff-man syndrome was reported in the 1950s, and the disease was historically referred to as “stiff-man syndrome”.
Since then, it has been discovered to affect women twice as often as men, and the name has been changed to Stiff Person Syndrome to avoid confusion.
This condition can develop at any age, but symptoms most often begin in your 30s or 40s, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
What causes stiff person syndrome?
Stiff person syndrome is thought to have hallmarks of an autoimmune disease, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Because the disease is rare and its symptoms are vague, people often seek care for chronic pain before they receive neurological care.
Learn about the latest health developments of the artist, Celine Dion, and what the media has hidden from her fans
On average, it takes about seven years for someone to receive a diagnosis of stiff person syndrome, says Dr. Scott Newsom, director of the Stiff Person Syndrome Center.
How is stiff person syndrome treated?
There is no known cure for stiff person syndrome, but medications may relieve symptoms. Immune globulin medications can help reduce sensitivity to light or sound stimuli, which may help prevent falls or seizures.
Pain relievers, anti-anxiety medications, and muscle relaxants can be part of treatment for this condition. The Stiff Person Syndrome Center also uses botulinum toxin injections.
“If left untreated, the disease can disrupt the course of daily life,” Moukheiber said.
But with treatment, symptoms can be controlled.
The international singer confirmed that she is currently receiving the treatment she needs at the hands of an excellent team of doctors.
She said, “I miss everyone so much…and I can’t wait to be on stage and sing for you.”
For now, Dion needs to focus on her health, hoping she is on the road to recovery.