Below Deck star in 'traumatic' hospital dash after 'painful' health scare

03 October 2023 , 12:20

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Below Deck star in 'traumatic' hospital dash after 'painful' health scare

Below Deck Mediterranean star Kyle Viljoen revealed he faced the 'most painful and traumatic bodily experience' of his life leading to him being hospitalised.

The 31-year-old took to his Instagram page to share the details of what happened to him after he reacted badly to new medication. He shared a couple of gruesome pictures of the rashes, cuts, welts and blisters that appeared on his skin and told his 100,000 followers: "Late Sunday night was the start to a scary ride for Zachary and I.

"After starting a new medication I begin to feel generally unwell. Little did I know the battle I was going to face was the most painful and traumatic bodily experience of my life. Monday started with throat pain like none other. Spread to my mouth, lips, hands, and feet. Having gone to the walk-in clinic & diagnosed with hand-foot-mouth disease they sent me on my way. Wednesday-Thursday I suffered from worsening blisters, inability to tolerate swallowing, tongue swelling, and change in vision. Friday there was still no sign of relief. Zachary rushed me to NYU ER."

Kyle revealed he had to be hospitalised (instagram/@kylethebold)

He learned that he had Stevens-Johnson syndrome – which is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. The disorder is usually a reaction to medication that starts with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful rash that spreads and blisters. Soon, the top layer of the skin dies before it starts to heal.

"Bypassing others in the ED waiting room, the medical staff rushed me into be examined from head to toe by almost every service from ophthalmology to dermatology (over 20 doctors) and told me I had something called SJS," he continued. "Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. Treated as a medical emergency requiring hospitalization.

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He urged followers to look after themselves and 'advocate' for their healths (instagram/@kylethebold)

"Usually a reaction to certain medications that starts with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful rash that spreads with bursting and oozing blisters. Then the top layer of affected skin dies & sheds. Treated with intensive IVIG transfusions and medical treatment. With an impeccable medical staff, a loving fiancé, and support of friends and family I am working towards making a full recovery. Having eaten my first meal in 7 days and finding that coconut milk helps with mouth blisters, I am over the moon with optimism and hope."

The star concluded: "A few things I’ve learned from this experience. One, advocate for your health and treat your body seriously. If something doesn’t feel right seek treatment. Two, family and a support system is EVERYTHING. Without them, I’m not sure where I’d be. And three, try to always get through rough times with lots of love and even more laughs (even when they hurt)."

Fans rushed to share their support, with one user saying: "So glad you’re feeling better!" while another added: "Baby im so worried about you! Feel better!!!"

Zara Woodcock