Lili Reinhart calls 2024 'hardest year of my life' as she battles mysterious disease
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Lili Reinhart has publicly disclosed her battle with interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic bladder condition, and her ongoing search for answers about a possible autoimmune or inflammatory disease.
The 'Riverdale' star took to Instagram and spoke with Self magazine to shed light on her health journey, calling 2024 the "hardest year of her life."
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Lili Reinhart opens up on interstitial cystitis diagnosis
In her Instagram post on January 25, Lili Reinhart wrote, “Being diagnosed with interstitial cystitis while simultaneously searching for answers about a mysterious autoimmunity/inflammatory disease made 2024 the hardest year of my life."
Reinhart’s vulnerability in sharing her story comes as she copes with persistent symptoms, including chronic fatigue, gut issues, weight fluctuations, and hair loss.
Reinhart revealed that her health challenges began four years ago, following repeated Covid-19 infection during 'Riverdale' production.
Chronic fatigue prompted extensive medical testing as doctors investigated autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s and Celiac disease, but the results were inconclusive.
“The weariness worried my doctors. They told me, ‘This isn’t normal,’” Reinhart said in her interview.
In mid-2022, she began experiencing gut issues that persisted despite testing, along with alopecia earlier this year.
Her symptoms worsened while filming in Germany last summer when she developed urinary discomfort.
Lili Reinhart hopes to raise awareness about health
Lili Reinhart said her decision to speak out was inspired by her grandmother, Corine Reinhart, who died from stage IV ovarian cancer shortly after her diagnosis.
“She was ignored by doctors for months despite clear symptoms,” Reinhart said.
“She only received a blood test after advocating for herself, but by then, the cancer had spread," she added.
The actress hopes her story will empower others to take control of their health.
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“Do not let a doctor gaslight you or diminish your pain,” she urged.
Lili Reinhart reflects on how she's navigating treatment and the road ahead
To manage her IC symptoms, Lili Reinhart has started weekly bladder instillations.
Despite the challenges, she expressed relief in finally having a diagnosis and is focused on treatment.
“So many women have this, and that’s why I think it’s important to say, ‘Hey, I’m dealing with it too,’” she shared.
After several hospital visits and consultations with specialists, Reinhart underwent a cystoscopy that confirmed inflammation consistent with interstitial cystitis.
"It’s like you almost hope there’s something in there so you can remove it and feel better," said Reinhart, according to Daily Mail.
