When Christina Applegate revealed her 13-year-old daughter Sadie has been diagnosed with POTS, the news resonated deeply with many. In a recent episode of Applegate’s “MeSsy” podcast, Sadie discussed her condition, finding a common bond with her mother, who battles multiple sclerosis.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a chronic disorder affecting the autonomic nervous system and blood circulation. This condition causes a rapid increase in heart rate upon standing, leading to symptoms like dizziness, weakness, and potential fainting. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, POTS can also result in tremors, nausea, and chronic fatigue.
A Shared Struggle
Sadie explained her daily challenges with POTS, describing the difficulties she faces when standing up. “I have something called POTS,” she shared. “I get really, really dizzy and my legs get weak. I feel like I’m going to pass out.”
Christina Applegate expressed her heartfelt concern for her daughter, saying, “I hate it for you, my darling. I really hate it for you. I’m sad. But I love you and I know you’re going to be OK. I’m here for you and I believe you.”
Misunderstood Symptoms
Sadie recounted the struggles she faced at school before her diagnosis. Frequent visits to the nurse during sixth grade were often misunderstood as attempts to skip class. “They were like, ‘You’re doing this to get out of class. It’s probably just anxiety. Go back to class,’” she recalled. “They wouldn’t do anything for it.”
Understanding Through Empathy
Applegate, diagnosed with MS in 2021, admitted she initially dismissed Sadie’s symptoms. Reflecting on this, she said, “She wears layers of clothes on 90-degree days and hates PE. I feel so horrible that we didn’t pay attention to it. I just didn’t see it at home, babe.”
The shared experience of living with chronic conditions has brought the mother and daughter closer. Sadie noted, “It’s helped me understand what my mom’s going through. When she’s in pain or having tremors, I can relate. If I didn’t have this, I probably wouldn’t understand.”
Moving Forward
Christina Applegate’s openness about her daughter’s condition highlights the importance of awareness and understanding of POTS. By sharing their story, Applegate and Sadie bring attention to a condition that many people might not know about, fostering empathy and support for those affected by similar health challenges.
