Bethenny Frankel discusses battle with long Covid and autoimmune disorder
Bethenny Frankel has spoken emotionally about her battle with long-time Covid and an autoimmune disease as she searches for answers about her health during a trip to New Orleans.
The RHONY star, 52, who has spoken openly about her struggle with POTS, a circulatory disorder that causes weight gain, bloating, dehydration and pain, told fans she was on a “medical research trip” because she was feeling scared and felt vulnerable.’
In a video, the star said, “When I had my near-death fish reaction — because I’m allergic to regular fish, not shellfish — the worst part was I was 60/40 when I got to the hospital. I was unconscious and they thought I was going to die from the blood pressure.
“The blood pressure is a big issue here, which is why the dizziness and dehydration leads to it – it’s a whole thing” – adding that she regularly has “severe pain in my neck.”
The star shared how she was “blown up like a tick” due to severe dehydration on a trip to Aspen,” saying the experience “scared her” and made her feel “really vulnerable.”
Candid: Bethenny Frankel has spoken emotionally about her battle with Long Covid and an autoimmune disease as she searches for answers about her health during a trip to New Orleans
She said, “I need to get to the bottom of this for me and my daughter.”
“We just think these things are who we are and normal, and the point is you’re a machine and it tells you it’s broken and you should listen to it. So I’m here to listen to it.”
And you know what’s great? I’ll be able to help you. I’ll be able to report back.”
In the video’s caption, she wrote, “I’m on a medical journey and I’m serious about getting answers. From long-term COVID to body aches to dehydration to dark circles to autoimmune conditions, it’s a lot to process and digest. I’ve learned that it doesn’t work to do things piecemeal in life and in health. I have to solve this puzzle and I’m taking you with me. Please be patient, because I am also learning a new language.
‘I don’t care what I look like. I don’t care what others think I look like. I care about how I feel and to be healthy for my daughter, my loved ones and for you.
“My journey now begins with X-rays and MRIs and examinations and dietary changes. I am thorough and serious about this, not only for me but also for you. I know that many cannot afford the time or resources to get these answers. I know all of our struggles are different, but from what I hear many are the same. I’m working on it. Xo.’
In February, Frankel took to Instagram and TikTok on Thursday to let her fans know why her face “looked different” in recent videos.
“Many of you ask why my face looks different in my makeup videos and it’s because I’m confused. I’m not doing very well,” she shared in an Instagram video.
Health struggles: The RHONY star, 52, who has spoken openly about her struggle with POTS, a circulatory disorder that causes weight gain, bloating, dehydration and pain, told fans she was on a “medical research trip” because she was afraid was and fragile’
In a video, the star said, “When I had my near-death fish reaction – because I’m allergic to regular fish, not shellfish – the worst part is I was 60/40 when I got to the hospital
Her girl: “My real thing is the fear of just not being healthy for my daughter. That is the most important. Who cares about the rest, I just want to be healthy for her,’ she said, bursting into tears; Pictured with Bryn in 2022
She later took to TikTok with more clips, and at one point, her voice broke as she burst into tears while talking about staying healthy for her daughter Bryn Hoppy, 12.
“My real thing is the fear of just not being healthy for my daughter. That is the most important. Who cares the rest, I just want to be healthy for her.’
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) is a circulatory disorder that causes your heart to beat faster than normal after transitioning from sitting to standing.
Patients diagnosed with POTS may experience rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, fainting, and dizziness.
The reality TV star took to Instagram for the first time and wrote, “There were some comments about my face looking different in recent videos, so here’s why.”
“I’m bloated, swollen and I’ve gained 4 pounds in 3 days because my body is desperately holding on to water,” the star explained.
Mama’s girl: Bethenny shares Bryn with ex-husband Jason Hoppy, whom she divorced in 2021; Pictured with Bryn in 2022
She continued, “A while ago I told about a serious battle with POTS. This is an autoimmune disease that seems to have drastically worsened since COVID. I know there are many of you, so thanks for all the information. It is certainly a condition to manage.’
“I suffer from chronic severe dehydration. I’ve always had extremely low blood pressure and dehydration, but it’s gotten exponentially worse.”
“I’m trying really hard to stay hydrated, getting IVs and I haven’t had a drink in six months. I’m actually on the case,” Frankel added.
“Altitude and a dry climate (in my favorite place in the world to practice my favorite sport) provide additional challenges.”
At the end of her statement, she reminded her followers to think twice before commenting on someone’s appearance: “PS. When you comment on someone’s appearance, you may not know exactly what that person is going through personally, physically, and emotionally.”