Celine Dion revealed on Thursday that she is affected by a uncommon neurological dysfunction known as stiff-person syndrome (SPS) that is affecting her on a regular basis life.
The iconic singer introduced the information in a video posted on social media and stated she has postponed her 2023 tour.
“While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what has been causing all of the spasms I have been having,” Dion stated.
“Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal chords to sing the way I’m used to.”
What is stiff-person syndrome?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) describes the syndrome as “a rare neurological disorder with features of an autoimmune disease.”
“SPS is characterised by fluctuating muscle rigidity in the trunk and limbs and a heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms,” NINDS stated.
Only about one or two in 1,000,000 persons are affected by stiff-person syndrome, in keeping with Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Spasms from the dysfunction will be triggered by “sudden movement, cold temperature or unexpected loud noises,” in keeping with Johns Hopkins.
Celine Dion throughout the arrivals on the 59th Annual Grammy Awards at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Feb 12, 2017. — TNS
What are the signs of stiff-person syndrome?
Symptoms of stiff-muscle syndrome embrace “pain, muscle stiffness and aching discomfort,” in keeping with the Cleveland Clinic.
“Over time, leg muscles become stiff and more muscles throughout your body become stiff including the arms and even the face,” the Cleveland Clinic stated.
“As stiffness increases, some people developed a hunched posture. In severe cases, this stiffness can make it hard to walk or move.”
Muscle spasms brought on by SPS “are often very painful and usually worsen existing stiffness,” the National Organization for Rare Disorders stated. These spasms can final for hours.
People with the dysfunction are additionally extra prone to have despair or nervousness signs, in keeping with Yale Medicine.
Is there a treatment for SPS?
There is no treatment for stiff-person syndrome, in keeping with Yale Medicine, however it may be handled.
“When doctors treat patients with this condition, they focus on relieving symptoms with medications such as sedatives, muscle relaxants, and steroids,” Yale Medicine stated.
A research funded by NINDS confirmed an intravenous immunoglobulin remedy in individuals with SPS can cut back stiffness and decrease sensitivity to noise, contact and stress.
Other remedy choices embrace “physical therapy, massage, water therapy, heat therapy (and) acupuncture,” in keeping with the Cleveland Clinic.
How is Celine Dion being handled?
Dion didn’t reveal the specifics of her remedy however stated she has “a great team of doctors working alongside her.”
“I have to admit it’s been a struggle,” Dion stated. “All I know is singing. It’s what I’ve done all my life, and it’s what I love to do the most.”
It’s unclear when Dion will return to the stage.
“I’m doing everything I can to recuperate,” she stated. – TNS
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