Shania Twain thinks Lyme disease is a "silent evil".
Shania Twain
The 52-year-old singer confirmed in 2017 that she'd been diagnosed with the infectious disease, and she's now revealed just how much the condition has affected her day-to-day life.
She shared: "Lyme disease does affect your life for sure. It's such a silent evil thing.
"A lot of the symptoms you just learn to live with. I was lucky that I caught it early. I did get a lot of damage but I'm not battling with degenerative organ issues so I feel very fortunate."
The 'Man! I Feel Like a Woman!' hitmaker makes a concerted effort to remain fit and healthy, while she's also determined to retain a positive outlook on life.
And the Canadian star has admitted to being proud of herself for how she has coped with the disease, which can lead to swelling in joints and problems with the nerves and heart.
She told E! News: "By the time you're my age, you have something. Everybody's got something in some form of their life. I'm proud of myself on one hand for persevering."
Despite her ongoing health issues, Shania continues to tour and insists that her shows have remained "sexy" over the years.
However, she's conceded that the disease has taken its toll on her performances, revealing she's been forced to make some adjustments.
Shania - who has also been diagnosed with dysphonia, which causes her voice to sound hoarse - said: "It's more work for me now vocally because of the Lyme disease effect on the nerves in my larynges so it's like an hour and a half of like physical exercise.
"I take a mini trampoline with me and I've got to do a real pre-show show."
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