Blaithín Carney

Rising Irish singer and songwriter Blaithín Carney was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in her early 20s. After releasing several singles, the singer was told to take a step back from her career and start her road to recovery. However, the Irish singer isn't expected to stop anytime soon. She currently manages her disorder with Pilates and a healthier diet. 

Photo source: Youtube

Cher had lived with chronic fatigue syndrome

Singer and actress, or the "Goddess of Pop," Cher was diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome in 1991. While not the same as fibromyalgia, symptoms are similar, and many people suffer from both conditions.

She has said the experience was "devastating". She suffered from CFS as a result of chronic Epstein-Barr virus, which she recovered from completely. She reports she suffered not only physical symptoms, but also dealt with depression due to the exhausting condition.

EBV is mysterious and could be connected with many other conditions, including multiple sclerosis. It is considered a herpes virus, and there is no vaccine to prevent it. It is typically spread through saliva, but can spread through blood and sexual contact. Symptoms may not appear for a few weeks, and even then, it can be tricky to diagnose since symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Most adults' blood tests will confirm they have had an EBV virus at some point in their life, or currently have it. 

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Stevie Nicks was diagnosed with CFS too

Stevie Nicks was diagnosed with chronic fatigue in 1987.

After seeking help for cocaine addiction, Nicks began using painkillers such as Klonopin, which she also became addicted to. One of her band's tours had to be suspended due to her pain and subsequent painkiller addiction. Her pain was connected to a diagnosis of Epstein Barr virus in the 80s.

It is unknown as to whether Nicks exhibited symptoms of CFS before her drug addiction (Klonopin or otherwise), or if there was a domino effect between both conditions. She has battled with different types of addiction throughout her life. 

Stevie Nicks still performs today.

Photo: Stevie Nicks by Eva Rinaldi