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Solange Knowles Reveals Health Journey with Multiple Diagnoses, Extends Support to POTS Community
The singer shared on Instagram that she received several medical diagnoses in 2018.
Solange Knowles, the acclaimed singer and visionary artist, recently shared an intimate update about her ongoing health challenges, revealing diagnoses she received in 2018. The 38-year-old musician commented on a recent Instagram post by fellow artist Shaun Ross, 33, in which he opened up about his struggles with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition that impacts the autonomic nervous system and causes heart rate and blood pressure irregularities.
In a heartfelt message on Ross’s Oct. 14 post, Solange disclosed that she had been diagnosed with POTS, Sjögren’s syndrome, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) in 2018. Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder, leads to dry eyes and mouth, while MCAS triggers an excess release of chemicals from mast cells, leading to symptoms affecting the skin, heart, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory system.
“Sending you so much love and strength, Shaun, and to all in the comments struggling with the debilitating, confusing, and lonely symptoms of POTS!”
Solange wrote, adding that she resonates deeply with the desire not to let one’s health challenges define their identity.
Solange also acknowledged the non-profit organization Dysautonomia International, crediting it as a significant resource in her journey. The organization aims to improve the lives of individuals with autonomic nervous system disorders through research, education, and patient support.
“The good folks at @dysautonomiaintl were really an incredible resource for me, and I feel really grateful for the spoonie community for holding me down during my times of complete uncertainty!” she shared.
This recent disclosure sheds new light on previous event cancellations linked to her health. In December 2017, Solange withdrew from her scheduled New Year’s Eve performance at Afropunk Fest in South Africa, citing an autonomic disorder she had been “quietly treating” for five months. Earlier that year, she also canceled her appearance at Florida State University’s Homecoming concert, with a statement noting a “medical condition” as the reason.
While she hasn’t often spoken publicly about her diagnoses, her openness in 2023 resonates with the many fans and individuals navigating similar health journeys.
