In a candid and emotional Instagram post, singer and former N-Dubz member Tulisa Contostavlos has opened up about a recent health ordeal that included a Bell's palsy attack and temporary paralysis. The 37-year-old star shared her experiences in a bid to promote authenticity on her social media platform, detailing a series of personal challenges that have impacted her well-being.
A Series of Health Struggles
Tulisa began her post by explaining her "hellish" withdrawal from nicotine after quitting smoking, marking two months since her last cigarette. She then revealed that she had to cancel a scheduled egg retrieval procedure due to a low count, adding to her health concerns. The singer also disclosed that she recently had three cysts removed, which were causing significant swelling and had triggered a Bell's palsy flare-up.
"Last 3 cysts removed by @darrylcoombesofficial who years ago discovered the cysts causing my swelling & Bell's palsy," her caption read. "Now cyst/swell free. Big thanks to Dr.Al @nlclinic for the referral! So grateful for @darrylcoombesofficial. When other dr's looked at me like I was crazy & must have had too much filler. What a journey?"
Devastating News and Further Complications
The health challenges continued when, on the same day as her surgery, Tulisa received devastating news about her close friend Michelle Platnum. She learned that her "soul sis" has been diagnosed with an aggressive cancer and will now begin chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments. "Still processing. She's a fighter, the fight continues," Tulisa wrote, urging her followers to "check your breasts" in a message of health awareness.
The emotional impact of this news, combined with post-surgery effects and medication, led to vomiting that caused increased pressure and triggered another Bell's palsy attack. "The news after post surgery effects/drugs led me to ? & pressure from throwing up caused a Bell's palsy attack ?," she explained. "Left my steroids in Manny but got some within 24hrs, so minor paralysis will last a week or so."
Understanding Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy is a temporary condition that causes weakness or lack of movement, typically affecting one side of the face. According to NHS guidelines, treatment with steroids can help manage symptoms, and most people recover fully within six months. Tulisa emphasized that her experience pales in comparison to what her friend Michelle is facing with her cancer diagnosis.
"Nothing compared to what my Shelly is going through. Currently in bed recovering nicely from it all," she wrote, maintaining a perspective of gratitude despite her own health struggles.
A Message of Resilience and Humanity
Tulisa concluded her lengthy post by insisting it wasn't a "sob story" but rather a "reminder we're all human, going through challenges, even when it looks shiny from the outside." She added philosophical reflections on the nature of life's ups and downs, writing: "Life isn't constant happiness, it's a series of ups & downs that define being ALIVE. It's up to u to choose ur thoughts/perceptions."
The post was accompanied by selfies taken in hospital, providing visual context to her health journey. Her openness was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities in the comments section. Radio presenter Dean McCullough praised her with "You're doing amazing ❤️❤️❤️," while content creator GK Barry wrote: "So proud of you queen T you're absolutely smashing it."
Tulisa's health update comes as part of her ongoing effort to maintain authenticity in her public communications, sharing both the highs and lows of her personal experiences with her substantial social media following.
