Christina Applegate has revealed that she was forced to wear diapers after contracting Sapovirus from ingesting fecal matter.
Applegate, 52, disclosed her battle with COVID-19 on the MeSsy podcast hosted by herself and Jamie-Lynn Sigler.
She contracted the virus for the first time after an acquaintance, whom she described as "real close," unwittingly exposed her by visiting her home after a trip to a bowling alley.
Given her existing condition of multiple sclerosis (MS), she and her caregiver fell ill, prompting concerns due to her compromised immune system.
Initially attributing her symptoms to a headache and chills, Applegate hoped for a swift recovery.
However, her COVID-19 diagnosis spiraled into a prolonged battle with long COVID, resulting in a chest infection and heightened heart rate.
As if grappling with these complications weren't challenging enough, Applegate discussed a particularly uncomfortable aspect of her illness.
Apologizing for the graphic nature of her revelation, Applegate described contracting a virus that caused her to experience involuntary bowel movements for several days.
She recalled the distressing experience of undergoing a stool test, revealing her diagnosis of Sapovirus, a condition transmitted through ingesting contaminated food.
Describing the ordeal, she said: "It is when you ingest the fecal matter of someone else from your food. Someone else's poop went into my mouth and I ate it."
Despite the severity of her symptoms, Applegate maintained her humor, albeit tinged with resignation, as she recalled waking up in the middle of the night to discover she had soiled her sheets due to her MS-related incontinence.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by her condition, she revealed her reliance on diapers, prompting a discussion with Sigler about the lack of available adult diaper options.
Applegate, who publicly disclosed her MS diagnosis in August 2021, reiterated her commitment to honesty regarding her health, emphasizing the therapeutic value of humor in confronting adversity.
In another episode of the podcast, Applegate disclosed that she had begun noticing subtle signs of the illness up to seven years prior to her diagnosis. Despite her battle, she acknowledged the toll MS has taken on her professional and personal life.
During the filming of the final season of Dead To Me, Applegate encountered significant hurdles due to her condition.
However, she expressed gratitude for the support of her co-star Linda Cardellini and showrunner Liz Feldman, who accommodated her needs and adjusted filming schedules to ensure her well-being.
"My legs have never been this bad so I don’t know what’s going on," she shared. "Like, no energy. Legs are just done. I can’t get circulation. I can’t get them to stop hurting."
Applegate detailed the challenges of mobility, citing difficulties in walking to the bathroom without fear of falling and experiencing unsettling tingling sensations throughout her lower body.