What is Stiff-Person Syndrome, the Condition That Affects Céline Dion's Singing Ability?

 

Pict From Instagram @celinedion

Following a "very rare neurological illness" diagnosis, stiff-person syndrome, Céline Dion said on Thursday that she would have to postpone her next European tour. Her capacity to sing and walk has been affected by the incapacitating sickness. Moersch-Woltman syndrome, also known as stiff-person syndrome, is described as a "rare neurological illness having symptoms of an autoimmune disease" by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. "The condition renders the body rigid and increases sensitivity to touch, noise, and mental distress." According to the institution, this increased sensitivity might result in muscle spasms and "hunched over and tensed" postures.

According to the Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation, the muscle spasms that Dion claimed to have experienced "may be so powerful they can dislocate joints and even break bones."

Dion claimed that the spasms have negatively impacted "all part" of her everyday life, interfering with everything from her capacity to walk to her ability to sing in the manner she is accustomed to.

Many people become too crippled as a result of the disorder, which, according to the institute, affects twice as many women as males "Move or stroll.

The institute continues, "many people are 'afraid to leave the house' because street noises, like the sound of a horn, might cause spasms and falls, "its scientists claim.

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center estimates that there are less than 5,000 cases of the condition in the United States.

But not much is known about it. It is frequently misdiagnosed as other autoimmune diseases, such as Parkinson's disease or an anxiety-phobia comorbidity. But according to studies, it might be brought on by a biological reaction that is "wrong" in the brain and spinal cord.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition is often treated with large dosages of diazepam, also known as Valium, which is frequently used to treat anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. According to the institute, people with stiff-person syndrome frequently take "multiple anti-convulsants," such as gabapentin and tiagabine.

Dion said she is working with a sports medicine therapist and a "wonderful team of experts," though she has not disclosed the details of her exact course of treatment.

There is no cure for the illness, however treatment can help with the symptoms.