After wrapping his mammoth tour, singer Justin Timberlake shared a personal health update with fans and explained that touring had been tougher than ever due to his Lyme disease diagnosis.

Lyme disease, an infection caused by bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi (are spread by ticks), can “cause arthritis, memory problems, neurological symptoms, Bell’s palsy, cardiac arrhythmias, depression and anxiety”, Dr Deborah Lee previously told Cosmopolitan UK. It can also be “a cause of chronic fatigue with a clinical picture similar to chronic fatigue syndrome.”

Many people are able to treat the disease with antibiotics meaning it cannot progress, but unfortunately for some it can cause life-altering symptoms on a long-term basis.

Sharing his own experience, Timberlake said, “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. When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.”

He added that at one point, quitting touring seemed like an option but he ultimately decided that the joy performing gives him outweighed the downsides. “I’m so glad I kept going.”

Here are 15 celebrities who’ve opened up about their Lyme disease diagnosis:

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.