Charlotte Chilton, known for her appearance on The Traitors, has shared an update from her hospital bed, detailing her ongoing battle with a severe form of trigeminal neuralgia (TN). The condition, which causes intense facial pain, has led to her being hospitalized after suffering agonizing attacks.
Chilton, 35, described her current experience as being "screaming and rocking in pain," indicating a significant relapse of her chronic condition. She explained on Instagram that her case is "very complex and severe," differing from more common presentations of TN. The attacks, which can be triggered by simple actions like chewing or a cool breeze, have become frequent and debilitating.
"I am completely out of remission (and have been for some time) which means the agonising pains are back," Chilton wrote in a detailed caption. She is currently undergoing treatment with strong medication and has undergone a recent procedure, with specialists collaborating to manage her condition.
The health challenges follow life-saving brain surgery Chilton underwent six months prior. In January, she experienced a terrifying seizure post-surgery that left her temporarily unable to walk. Doctors at the time speculated this seizure might have been related to new medication she was prescribed, which also led to other complications like tonsillitis and mouth ulcers.
Earlier in the year, prior to her brain surgery, Chilton was rushed to the emergency room after a severe trigeminal neuralgia attack. The chronic condition, sometimes referred to as "the suicide disease" due to its impact on mental health, led to her undergoing neurosurgery for long-term relief. She was discharged from the hospital after nearly three weeks following that surgery.
Chilton expressed a desire to raise awareness for trigeminal neuralgia, noting it is a "barely known" condition that is "underfunded." She highlighted that many medical professionals lack adequate training to support sufferers. "It's a disability that you cannot see but it doesn't mean you shouldn't be seen," she stated, advocating for greater recognition and understanding of the disorder.
Her current hospitalization has also meant limited time with her two-year-old daughter, Penelope, who experiences distress when her mother is unwell. Chilton also shared her longing for her family and partner, who has provided support by sending her a teddy bear sprayed with his aftershave.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Chilton commended the hospital staff on the neurology ward for their care. She remains committed to advocating for those affected by neuralgia and encouraging others to share their experiences to help drive change and support individuals facing mental health crises related to chronic pain.