Latest news with #CamillaLuddington
New York Post
4 days ago
- Health
- New York Post
What is Hashimoto's? Grey's Anatomy's Camilla Luddington's disease explained
'Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington revealed this week that she's battled an autoimmune disease. The actress, 41, said on the 'Call It What It Is' podcast that she'd been feeling constantly 'slothy' and 'tired' — but figured at first that it was just her age or even hormonal changes. 'I thought, I have two kids, I'm in my 40s. This is what 'the 40s' is. I have jobs to do, maybe I'm perimenopause,' she said. Advertisement 'It got to the point where, by 11 a.m., I felt like I had to chug Benadryl, and I needed to nap. It didn't matter how much sleep I'd gotten the night before. There was no pushing through the day.' 4 'Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington revealed her Hashimoto's diagnosis this week. Richard Cartwright But after getting blood work done, she was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease. What is Hashimoto's? Hashimoto's is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. The condition is characterized by the immune system's creation of antibodies that attack thyroid cells as if they were bacteria, viruses, or some other foreign threat. Advertisement The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ in the front of your neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism, support growth, and promote brain development, among other vital functions. The primary function of the thyroid is metabolic regulation. In patients with Hashimoto's disease the thyroid doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone for the body, slowing the metabolism and leading to a slew of symptoms. Named for Dr. Hakaru Hashimoto, the physician who identified the condition in 1912, Hashimoto's disease is also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis, Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, and Lymphocytic thyroiditis. Advertisement Hashimoto's is a common condition, affecting 5 in 100 Americans. Hashimoto's can develop in any sex at any age, but women are 10 times more likely to be diagnosed than men. Diagnosis typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. People with existing autoimmune conditions like Addison's disease, Celiac disease, Lupus, Pernicious anemia, Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome and Type 1 diabetes are more likely to develop Hashimoto's. 4 She'd initially dismissed her fatigue as normal for being a mom in her 40s. FilmMagic Advertisement What causes Hashimoto's disease? In patients with Hashimoto's, the immune system erroneously enlists disease-fighting agents that damage healthy cells. The exact cause of Hashimoto's is unclear, but experts believe the onset of the disease may be related to genetic factors or environmental triggers like stress, infection, and radiation exposure. Hashimoto's symptoms Patients with Hashimoto's disease may not have any symptoms at first. As Hashimoto's progresses, the thyroid gland may swell and enlarge, a condition known as a goiter. This is often the first sign of the disease. The symptoms of Hashimoto's progress slowly over the course of several years. Eventually, the decline in thyroid hormone production can result in the following symptoms: Fatigue Weight gain Increased sensitivity to cold Dry skin Enlarged tongue Constipation Muscle weakness Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness Joint pain and stiffness Irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding Depression Problems with cognition Swelling of the thyroid (goiter) A puffy face Brittle nails Hair loss 4 As Hashimoto's progresses, the thyroid gland may swell and enlarge, a condition known as a goiter. Orawan – How is Hashimoto's diagnosed? Advertisement Hashimoto's is tentatively diagnosed by symptoms and a physical exam and confirmed through a series of blood tests, including a Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test, a Free thyroxine (T4) test, and/or an Antithyroid antibody test. In some cases, providers may recommend a thyroid ultrasound to assess the size and quality of the gland and deduce if thyroid growths are present. How is Hashimoto's treated? Not all patients with Hashimoto's will develop hypothyroidism. In these cases, healthcare providers monitor thyroid levels but eschew treatment. When/if Hashimoto's leads to hypothyroidism, the gold standard in treatment is the medication levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the hormone T4 produced by the thyroid. Advertisement 4 Luddington revealed that she's been prescribed Levothyroxine and is now 'on the road to recovery.' Getty Images for MPTF NextGen Luddington revealed that she's been prescribed Levothyroxine and is now 'on the road to recovery.' 'I do feel a lot better. My energy's a lot better,' she said, adding, 'It's going to be a journey.' If hypothyroidism goes untreated, it can lead to serious health issues, including pregnancy complications, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and in some cases, myxedema coma, a rare condition in which the body's functions slow to the point of being fatal Is there a cure for Hashimoto's? Advertisement There is no known cure for Hashimoto's, but medication like Levothyroxine, eating well, exercising, adequate sleep, and stress management can support the immune system. Famous people with Hashimoto's In addition to Luddington, other famous people who have been open about their Hashimoto's diagnosis include supermodel Gigi Hadid, who has previously shared how the disease has affected her body. Zoe Saldana, Kelly Clarkson and Oprah Winfrey have also spoken out about having the condition.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
'Grey's Anatomy' star diagnosed with Hashimoto's: What to know about the disease
"Grey's Anatomy" star Camilla Luddington recently revealed she has been diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder. The British actress, known for her role as Dr. Jo Wilson, shared the news on the "Call It What It Is" podcast in an episode aired on Wednesday, which she co-hosts with fellow "Grey's Anatomy" star Jessica Capshaw. 'Grey's Anatomy' star opens up about battle with postpartum anxiety, severe PMS disorder Luddington explained that, for some time, she had felt unusually tired and sluggish, often joking about being "slothy." However, she didn't consider that there might be a medical reason behind it. After finally completing routine blood work, Luddington received the surprising diagnosis. "My doctor was like, everything looks great except this one little thing," she recalled. The news hit her hard. "I remember hearing the words 'autoimmune disease' and thinking, 'What the f---?'" Luddington said, though she later learned that hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto's disease is quite common. Capshaw asked how Luddington processed the news, and Luddington admitted that she had suspected something was wrong with her health. "You know what? I knew something was up," Luddington shared. "Because even when I was having my blood drawn, the doctor said to me, 'Is there any, you know, particular thing you're concerned about?' And I said, 'Look, I'm really f---ing tired all the time.'" Initially, Luddington thought her symptoms might be due to perimenopause, a phase before menopause. But after learning about her autoimmune diagnosis, she said, "When they said it's really common, I was like, 'well, that sucks, but okay.'" Luddington has been part of the "Grey's Anatomy" cast since 2012. In addition to her role on the ABC drama, she has starred as Kate in "William & Kate: The Movie" and appeared on shows like "Californication" and "True Blood." What to know about Hashimoto's disease Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or, in rare cases, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, becomes damaged in people with Hashimoto's, NIDDK states on its website. The immune system produces antibodies that attack the thyroid, leading to the accumulation of white blood cells which destroy thyroid's cells that produce hormones. 'Grey's Anatomy' renewed for 22nd season at ABC This condition is also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, or autoimmune thyroiditis, according to NIDDK. While the exact number of people affected in the U.S. is unknown, Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which impacts about 5% of Americans. NIDDK notes that early on, Hashimoto's may not show symptoms, but as it progresses, it can cause fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, joint pain, constipation, dry skin, irregular periods and a slowed heart rate. It often leads to hypothyroidism, but in its early stages, it can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism. The thyroid may also enlarge, creating a swollen neck or goiter, which can shrink over time. According to NIDDK, the exact cause of Hashimoto's is unknown, but it is often linked to a family history of thyroid disease. Several factors, including genes, viruses like hepatitis C, certain medications, and exposure to toxins such as nuclear radiation, can contribute to its development. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
‘Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington reveals health diagnosis: ‘A little freaked out'
'Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington is facing a real-life medical crisis. The actress, 41, recently revealed that after constantly feeling 'slothy' and 'tired' she got blood work done and was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease. 'My doctor was like, 'Everything looks great except this one little thing.' And I remember hearing the words autoimmune disease and thinking, 'What the f–k?'' Luddington said on Wednesday's episode of her 'Call It What It Is' podcast that she co-hosts with former 'Grey's' co-star Jessica Capshaw. 'I was a little freaked out,' Luddington recalled, 'and then when they said it's really common, I was like, 'That sucks but okay.'' Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes lower-than-normal levels of thyroid hormone in your body, according to Cleveland Clinic. The disease affects about 5 in 100 people in the US. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, muscle pain and low or depressed mood. Luddington explained that she was actually 'relieved' after she received her diagnosis from doctors. 'I felt like I had the answer for something that I've been knowing is going on,' she shared. 'And I have health anxiety, so there was a part of me that was like, 'Am I gaslighting myself?'' 'I thought, I have two kids, I'm in my 40s. This is what 'the 40s' is,' the 'Californication' star continued. 'You know, I have jobs to do, maybe I'm perimenopause. It got to the point where, by 11 a.m., I felt like I had to chug Benadryl, and I needed to nap. It didn't matter how much sleep I'd gotten the night before. There was no pushing through the day.' Luddington added that when she woke up one day her 'face and hands were really swollen.' 'It was getting to the point where I was like, 'Wow, this is hard to live this way.' I didn't realize how exhausted my body was,' she said. But Luddington informed fans that she was prescribed Levothyroxine, a medication that treats thyroid hormone deficiency, and is now 'on the road to recovery.' 'I do feel a lot better. My energy's a lot better,' she said, adding, 'It's going to be a journey.' Luddington has played Dr. Jo Wilson on 'Grey's Anatomy' since 2012. The hit ABC series, which returns for Season 22 in October, also currently stars Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson, James Pickens Jr., Kevin McKidd, Caterina Scorsone, Jason George, Kim Raver and Chris Carmack. Solve the daily Crossword
New York Post
6 days ago
- Health
- New York Post
‘Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington reveals health diagnosis: ‘A little freaked out'
'Grey's Anatomy' star Camilla Luddington is facing a real-life medical crisis. The actress, 41, recently revealed that after constantly feeling 'slothy' and 'tired' she got blood work done and was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease. 'My doctor was like, 'Everything looks great except this one little thing.' And I remember hearing the words autoimmune disease and thinking, 'What the f–k?'' Luddington said on Wednesday's episode of her 'Call It What It Is' podcast that she co-hosts with former 'Grey's' co-star Jessica Capshaw. 7 Caterina Scorsone, Camilla Luddington in 'Grey's Anatomy.' Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images 'I was a little freaked out,' Luddington recalled, 'and then when they said it's really common, I was like, 'That sucks but okay.'' Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes lower-than-normal levels of thyroid hormone in your body, according to Cleveland Clinic. 7 Camilla Luddington hosting her podcast. callitwhatitis/Instagram 7 Camilla Luddington at Disney's 'Lilo and Stitch' premiere in LA on May 17. FilmMagic The disease affects about 5 in 100 people in the US. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, muscle pain and low or depressed mood. Luddington explained that she was actually 'relieved' after she received her diagnosis from doctors. 'I felt like I had the answer for something that I've been knowing is going on,' she shared. 'And I have health anxiety, so there was a part of me that was like, 'Am I gaslighting myself?'' 7 Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington attend the 2024 French Open. WireImage 'I thought, I have two kids, I'm in my 40s. This is what 'the 40s' is,' the 'Californication' star continued. 'You know, I have jobs to do, maybe I'm perimenopause. It got to the point where, by 11 a.m., I felt like I had to chug Benadryl, and I needed to nap. It didn't matter how much sleep I'd gotten the night before. There was no pushing through the day.' 7 Jason George, Camilla Luddington in 'Grey's Anatomy.' Disney via Getty Images Luddington added that when she woke up one day her 'face and hands were really swollen.' 'It was getting to the point where I was like, 'Wow, this is hard to live this way.' I didn't realize how exhausted my body was,' she said. But Luddington informed fans that she was prescribed Levothyroxine, a medication that treats thyroid hormone deficiency, and is now 'on the road to recovery.' 7 Camilla Luddington attends the MPTF NextGen Annual Summer Party fundraiser in Los Angeles on June 22. Getty Images for MPTF NextGen 7 Camilla Luddington in an Instagram photo. camillaluddington/Instagram 'I do feel a lot better. My energy's a lot better,' she said, adding, 'It's going to be a journey.' Luddington has played Dr. Jo Wilson on 'Grey's Anatomy' since 2012. The hit ABC series, which returns for Season 22 in October, also currently stars Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson, James Pickens Jr., Kevin McKidd, Caterina Scorsone, Jason George, Kim Raver and Chris Carmack.
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Grey's Anatomy star Camilla Luddington reveals she was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease
Camilla Luddington revealed that she has been diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease after feeling 'slothy.' The 41-year-old actress - who is known for portraying Dr. Jo Wilson in Grey's Anatomy - opened up about the health update on Wednesday's episode of her podcast Call It What It Is. She told her co-host Jennifer Capshaw that she was initially 'freaked out' by the diagnosis, but is also 'relieved' to have an answer to the symptoms she had been experiencing. Camilla explained that she went in nearly three months earlier to get routine bloodwork done which was when her doctor made the discovery. 'I remember hearing the words "autoimmune disease" and thinking, "What the f***?"' she said, but was told the diagnosis was 'common.' The star expressed that she 'knew something was up' and initially believed it could possibly have been perimenopause. 'So, truly when they said autoimmune disease, I, you know, I was a little freaked out. And then when they said it's really common, I was like, well, that sucks, but okay.' But finally having answers soon brought relief to the actress who added, 'I felt like I had the answer for something that I've been knowing is going on, and I have health anxiety. So there was a part of me that was like, am I gaslighting myself? No.' Camilla offered an explanation to listeners what the autoimmune disease is and explained, 'Hashimoto's is when your body's immune system accidentally attacks your thyroid. 'Which is a little gland in your neck that helps control your energy, AKA makes you a little slothy. K? So over time, the damage it does, it makes the thyroid slow down and stop making enough hormones.' Additional symptoms others can experience include feeling fatigue, getting cold easily, dry skin, weight gain and depression. The Californication actress then jokingly added, 'Basically, you're feeling gorgeous with Hashimoto.' According to Mayo Clinic, the most common form of treatment for the autoimmune disease is 'thyroid hormone replacement.' The mom-of-two said, 'Now I'm on a medication called Levothyroxine. I started on the lowest dose of that, and I had to have blood work every six weeks, and it's the test to see me getting back to normal.' Despite receiving the diagnosis, the star positively told fans that she is on 'the road to recovery.' Other celebrities have also been open with their Hashimoto's diagnosis such as Gigi Hadid, Zoe Saldana and Victoria Justice. Camilla began her entertainment career by taking on minor roles in shows such as Days Of Our Lives and Big Time Rush. In 2011, she portrayed Catherine 'Kate' Middleton in the Lifetime television movie titled William & Kate: The Movie. Camilla has also made appearances in other projects including Californication and True Blood. Since 2012, Camilla has been playing the character Dr. Jo Wilson in the hit series Grey's Anatomy. The actress is set to reprise her role once again in the upcoming 22nd season of the ABC show. During a recent interview with Variety, the star opened up about stepping into the shoes of Jo for over a decade. 'So, this very strange thing happens when you're playing characters for this long - where sometimes your life kind of goes in and out and is parallel to the other.' She added, 'But I consider it a privilege to be in a position where I get to play somebody this long.' When questioned if she will know when it is time to say goodbye to her character, Camilla explained, 'There's an organic moment in a lot of these characters' storylines where it's obvious that they're starting a new chapter. 'And if that happens, you have to be in a place to embrace it, especially when I've been lucky enough to be on the show for this long. But I want to continue on this ride with her...' When the actress is not busy in front of the camera, she focuses on raising her two children Hayden, eight, and Lucas, four, with husband Matthew Alan. Camilla and Matthew first crossed paths in 2008 and later tied the knot in 2019 during a romantic ceremony in Santa Barbara. He is also an actor and has starred in projects such as Presumed Innocent alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, Snowfall, Castlerock and 13 Reasons Why. During an interview with People in February, the actress revealed the sweet gesture her husband does every day. 'He brings me coffee every morning. And it's just this little tiny moment in the middle of the chaos of getting the kids ready that feels like he's thinking of me.' Camilla continued, 'I call it "Daddy Bucks" because he's like Starbucks. It's like the best cup of coffee ever. And just the act of him handing me coffee every morning is this little moment of love language between us.'
