Justin Timberlake is one of the most recognisable names in pop music and rightly so! He recently wrapped up his two-year Forget Tomorrow World Tour. The 44-year-old singer, who rose to fame with NSYNC and later carved out a hugely successful solo career, shared a personal health update with fans after the tour ended.
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In a candid Instagram post, Timberlake revealed he had been quietly battling a serious illness while performing. Reportedly, he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. Here’s everything we know.
Justin Timberlake reveals Lyme disease diagnosis
Justin Timberlake disclosed his Lyme disease diagnosis on Instagram, saying he felt 'shocked' by the news. He explained:
I've been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease — which I don't say so you feel bad for me — but to shed some light on what I've been up against behind the scenes.
If you've experienced this disease or know someone who has - then you're aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.
Despite being given the option to stop his tour early, Timberlake pushed through, citing the ‘joy that performing brings.’
The diagnosis followed multiple health setbacks during his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, including back issues, bronchitis, laryngitis and an ankle injury, according to People. He said:
As many of you know, I'm a pretty private person. But as I'm reflecting on the tour and festival tour - I want to tell you a little bit about what's going on with me.
Despite the challenges, Timberlake expressed gratitude for completing the tour, noting:
Not only did I prove my mental tenacity to myself but, I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget.
After finishing the tour in Turkey, Timberlake shared a relaxed photo on Instagram Stories wearing a sweatshirt reading:
I'm not doing sh*t today. Mission accomplished.
Timberlake is not the only singer to be diagnosed with the disease; Justin Bieber also has it.
A source told BBC that his wife Jessica Biel has been 'incredibly supportive', adding that the diagnosis gave him 'clarity' after months of unexplained symptoms.
What is Lyme disease and how does it affect the body?
Lyme disease is an illness caused by Borrelia bacteria, typically spread through the bite of an infected tick. According to the Mayo Clinic, early symptoms usually appear within 3 to 30 days and can include fever, extreme tiredness, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic bull's-eye rash. However, not all patients exhibit a rash.
If left untreated, the disease can progress to more severe stages, potentially leading to neck stiffness, facial muscle weakness, irregular heartbeats, and pain in the extremities. In its late stage, Lyme disease may cause arthritis, particularly in large joints like the knees, and in some cases, serious complications affecting the nervous system or eyesight.
Patients typically recover with antibiotic treatment, especially if diagnosed early. However, some people continue to experience symptoms such as tiredness and joint pain for months or even years after treatment, a condition sometimes referred to as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS).
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Sources used:
BBC: Justin Timberlake reveals Lyme disease diagnosis
People: Justin Timberlake Jokes He's 'Not Doing S--- Today' as He Returns Home from Tour amid Lyme Disease Diagnosis
Mayo Clinic: Lyme disease
