Yahoo Lifestyle Below Deck star Kyle Viljoen diagnosed with rare skin disorder
Below Deck star Kyle Viljoen has been diagnosed with a rare skin disorder after a "traumatic" health experience.
Taking to Instagram to reveal his diagnosis, Kyle detailed the "start to a scary ride" for him and fiancé Zachary.
"After starting a new medication, I begin to feel generally unwell," he said. "Little did I know the battle I was going to face the most painful and traumatic bodily experience of my life."
He shared the lead-up to his diagnosis, writing: "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.
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"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."
After bypassing others in the emergency department waiting room, Kyle was quickly examined and diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
"Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes," he wrote. "Usually a reaction to certain medications that start with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful rash that spreads with bursting and oozing blisters."
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Kyle praised the "impeccable medical staff, a loving fiancé, and support of friends and family" in helping him work 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," he said.
Kyle also shared what he had learned from the ordeal, posting: "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). ❤️"
Below Deck is available to watch on Hayu.
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