Alexis Ohanian Opens Up About Lyme Disease Diagnosis.
Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and husband of tennis icon Serena Williams, recently shared that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
The 41-year-old entrepreneur revealed details of his condition on X (formerly Twitter) in a series of candid posts, surprising many since he exhibited no obvious symptoms.
Ohanian explained that the diagnosis came after a comprehensive series of medical tests and health screenings.
While his cholesterol levels presented some concerns—with good cholesterol being too low—he noted a few positive health indicators, such as favorable testosterone levels.
Despite having a family history of Lyme disease, the news still caught him off guard, especially since he did not consider himself at high risk due to his limited exposure to wilderness areas.
Reflecting on his family’s prior battle with Lyme disease, Ohanian recounted how a loved one experienced severe symptoms, with the illness taking a long time to be properly diagnosed.
In his case, Ohanian’s proactive health screenings proved instrumental in catching the condition early. He is set to begin a course of antibiotics and remains optimistic about managing the disease.
Encouraging his 563,000 followers to prioritize their health, Ohanian urged people to consult medical professionals rather than rely on anecdotal advice.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Lyme disease is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.
While the disease is most prevalent in the Upper Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, it is also found in parts of Europe and Canada.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year.
Early detection and a standard 10- to 14-day antibiotic course often lead to successful recovery. However, the condition remains a topic of debate.
A January 2023 report from the American Medical Association highlighted challenges in treating persistent symptoms and noted the impact of misinformation, particularly when individuals without a formal diagnosis report ongoing health issues.
Ohanian joins other public figures who have openly shared their experiences with Lyme disease. Celebrities such as Yolanda Hadid and her daughter Bella Hadid, as well as musician Justin Bieber, have spoken candidly about their struggles with the illness.
Yolanda Hadid detailed severe, debilitating symptoms, while Bieber revealed that Lyme disease, coupled with chronic mononucleosis, significantly affected his health and well-being.
Ohanian’s transparency about his diagnosis highlights the importance of proactive health monitoring and awareness about Lyme disease.
As he embarks on his treatment journey, his message serves as a reminder to take health concerns seriously, even when symptoms appear absent.