Stars who battled Lyme disease: Justin Bieber, Bella Hadid, more

Many celebrities have spoken out about their Lyme disease diagnoses over the years, and because the disease can be easily misdiagnosed, many have had to fight to be believed.

According to the Mayo ClinicLyme disease is transmitted by ticks and caused by four types of bacteria in the United States, Europe and Asia. In fact, it is the most common tick-borne disease in those regions. Early symptoms include a bull’s-eye rash, fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, headache, neck stiffness, and swollen lymph nodes. If the disease is left untreated, symptoms progress to severe joint pain and neurological problems such as meningitis and Bell’s palsy.

Justin Bieber confirmed his diagnosis in January 2020, and his wife, Hailey Bieber, stood in his defense on the same day.

“For those trying to downplay the seriousness of Lyme disease, please do your research and listen to the stories of people who have suffered from it for years,” she wrote. “Mocking and belittling a disease you don’t understand is never the right thing to do. All you need is to educate yourself.”

Scroll down to read more about other Hollywood stars who have battled the disease.