MusicThe chronic illness that has caused Billie Eilish to have pain since childhood

Since childhood, Billie Eilish suffers from severe pain throughout the body, especially in the joints. The singer is diagnosed with hypermobility — a condition that makes her elbows, knees and other joints and ligaments move beyond what is expected.

In some cases, like that of the artist, discomfort may occur. Furthermore, in general, it is easier to suffer injuries.

In an interview with Vogue, Eilish revealed the age at which his pain began and also complained about the lack of understanding he received from the adults he lived with. According to the singer, many people did not take seriously the fact that a child was always in distress.

She said:

I’ve basically been in pain since I was 9 years old. Growing up, I always heard people say, ‘Wait until you’re older! You’re going to be in so much pain!’ and I remember being so furious.”

Billie he also said that the pain and injuries he acquired throughout his life represented a serious problem on his first tours. Even though she continues to get hurt frequently, the artist has changed her way of looking at the situation so that she suffers a little less.

I’ve had some really dark times on tour. For a long time I was kind of living like it was temporary. Like: ‘I’m touring for now and it’s kind of unpleasant, but it will end.’ The truth is, it’s for the rest of my life. I didn’t realize I could make touring fun. I was very alone for many years, but I’m not interested in that anymore. I want to enjoy the show as well as my days.”

The pain caused by hypermobility also affects mental health, a topic on which Billie discussed publicly on a few occasions. Treatment for the condition includes the use of powerful painkillers, as common pain medications are rarely effective in cases like hers.

Billie Eilish’s hypermobility

Hypermobility can occur in 10% to 25% of the world’s population. It is also 15% more common in women.

Billie Eilish is part of an even smaller number of people who experience pain related to the hyperextensive movement of their joints. In all cases, it is easy to suffer injuries and other types of joint problems.

Ligament tears and inflammation are more common, which also contributes to increased pain. Bone arthritis and other problems may also occur more in people with hypermobility.

The condition still manifests itself more frequently in people with autism, ADHD, fibromyalgia and issues related to anxiety and panic in general.

Collaborated: André Luiz Fernandes.