Zoe Ball reveals 'awful' health condition as she reflects on quitting BBC Radio 2 show

Zoe Ball has openly discussed her struggle with a health condition that's been causing her 'awful' symptoms, coinciding with the news of her stepping down from her early morning BBC Radio 2 breakfast show. The popular broadcaster and mother of two, aged 54, took to her Instagram account, where she has a following of 738k, to talk about her painful experiences with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ).

Zoe posted: "I have TMJ and wake most days with awful headaches from tension and jaw clenching. So grateful to Helen @sculptresslondon for her magic. This is my face after I've seen her, check out my face before - yikes - picture 2."

She continued: "Can't recommend her enough. She also has the greatest playlists. Thank you H and to @just._.tiff for the intro."

Zoe showed her appreciation with praying hands and a red heart emoji. Her post resonated with many followers, prompting one to respond: "God, I need this."

Another shared their own battle, adding: "Along with acid reflux and the headaches. Wondering if anyone else has TMJ and acid reflux, the two can be linked.", reports the Mirror.

Additionally, Zoe mentioned: "Also having microsuction on the old ears at the weekend (in the good old days ear syringing was free on the NHS, now they won't do - so £60 to have wax removed) This can also be common with those who have TMJ. Just interested to know if others have these conditions."

Zoe Ball was quick to engage with a considerate fan, expressing her interest by saying: "That's fascinating. I don't have reflux but do have earache. I'll check out the microsuction, thanks."

Celebrity pals also joined the conversation, with Julia Bradbury noting: "So magical to find people like this in our lives" and Stacey Dooley offering a friendly: "Stunz."

While Zoe has been open about her treatment, it is known that Botox can help relieve tension in the face and jaw and prevent involuntary clenching. The NHS describes Temporomandibular disorder as a condition that affects jaw movement, which is typically not serious and improves over time.

It can cause pain around the ear, jaw, and temple, and softer foods are recommended for those affected. Stress can exacerbate the condition.

Recently, Zoe announced she would be leaving her demanding position as host of the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show after six years, choosing to say goodbye to early starts and dedicate more time to her family. In a heartfelt moment on her Tuesday (19 November) morning show, Zoe told listeners: "Ok you lovely bunch, I have some news. After six years of fun times alongside you all on the Breakfast Show, I've decided it's time to step away from the early alarm call and focus on family."

"You know I think the world of you all listeners, and it truly has been such a privilege to share the mornings with you, to go through life's little ups and downs, we got through the lockdown together, didn't we? We've shared a hell of a lot, the good times, the tough times, there's been a lot of laughter. And I am going to miss you cats. I'm going to miss my amazing Prod Squad who I adore. Already missing Mike, I'm going to miss Tina and Richie. They've all become like family to me, like you lot. But I won't miss the 4am alarm call, if I'm completely honest."

The announcement comes after a difficult period for the presenter who took a hiatus from her show earlier this year following the passing of her mother Julie Peckham, after a battle with advanced pancreatic cancer diagnosed in January.