Christina Applegate Details Humorous Yet Challenging Battle with Sapovirus Infection on Podcast
ICARO Media Group
In a recent episode of the "MesSy" podcast, actress Christina Applegate candidly discussed her unpleasant experience with a sapovirus infection. The "Dead to Me" star, who is also battling multiple sclerosis, humorously recounted the symptoms and hardships she faced during this encounter.
The podcast, co-hosted by Applegate and actor Jamie-Lynn Sigler, addresses various topics related to multiple sclerosis. In the sixth episode, the discussion took a graphic turn as Applegate delved into her encounter with the sapovirus, a gastrointestinal infection.
Applegate described experiencing dizziness and uncontrollable diarrhea, leading her to undergo a stool test. In a somewhat unpleasant process, she had to collect her own fecal samples and transfer them into vials. Applegate admitted that the task made her so nauseous that she ended up vomiting.
The results of the stool test revealed that Applegate had contracted a sapovirus infection. This virus is typically transmitted when someone consumes food contaminated with fecal matter. Applegate suspected that a takeout salad from a long-time vegan restaurant she frequented was the likely source of the infection. However, she chose not to disclose the restaurant's name.
Adding to the already challenging situation, Applegate noted that the sapovirus infection exacerbated her multiple sclerosis symptoms. The chronic illness, which she was diagnosed with in 2021, can cause difficulties with walking, balance, and fatigue, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
During the podcast, Applegate also shared personal anecdotes about how her multiple sclerosis has impacted her daily life. She recounted waking up in the middle of the night due to difficulties caused by the illness and discussed the use of adult diapers for convenience. Both she and Sigler engaged in lighthearted banter about potential improvements in adult diaper designs.
Applegate's openness about her battle with multiple sclerosis extends beyond the podcast. She has previously spoken about her experience and symptoms during interviews. The actress revealed that she had experienced relapses, such as intense pain in her legs and discomfort in her eye, which can be a symptom of multiple sclerosis.
Applegate also discussed her delayed diagnosis, mentioning that she had overlooked early signs of the illness. She recounted instances where her leg would unexpectedly give out during filming and how she gradually needed assistance in the form of a wheelchair on set.
Despite the difficulties she faces, Applegate remains determined and resilient. Her willingness to share her experiences with both multiple sclerosis and the sapovirus infection sheds light on the challenges encountered by those living with chronic illnesses and inspires others to find humor in difficult situations.
As she continues her journey, Applegate hopes to not only raise awareness of multiple sclerosis but also educate others about the importance of understanding and supporting individuals living with chronic illnesses.