American entrepreneur and television personality Bethenny Frankel has disclosed her diagnosis of stage 2 chronic kidney disease, a serious health issue that she believes may be connected to a near-fatal allergic reaction experienced years ago. Frankel shared this significant update on social media, expressing her shock and prompting a reflection on her past health challenges.
The diagnosis followed routine blood tests that indicated abnormalities in her kidney function. As reported by TMZ, the concerning results led to a referral to a specialist, where further examinations confirmed the presence of kidney disease. At this stage, kidney damage is classified as mild but measurable, requiring close monitoring to prevent further decline.
Despite the diagnosis, Frankel emphasized that she had not noticed any obvious symptoms prior to the blood tests. This highlights the critical importance of early screening, especially for chronic conditions like kidney disease.
Possible Causes and Lifestyle Adjustments
In discussing possible factors contributing to her condition, Frankel recalled a traumatic allergic reaction from years past, during which she claimed she “almost died.” Medical professionals have suggested that the kidney damage could be related to autoimmune issues or the earlier allergic episode. Severe allergic reactions can impose significant stress on the body, potentially impacting vital organs, including the kidneys.
While the precise cause of her kidney disease remains uncertain, Frankel is undergoing continuous assessments by her healthcare team. She has not shared detailed information about her current health status but has indicated she is taking proactive steps following the diagnosis.
Frankel has received advice to enhance her hydration, acknowledging that she had not consistently prioritized adequate water intake. Additionally, she is making dietary adjustments, which include reducing her consumption of certain foods. Although she recognizes that these lifestyle changes will be challenging, she considers them essential in light of her health condition.
Health Challenges and Advocacy
This kidney diagnosis follows a particularly challenging start to 2026 for Frankel. Earlier this year, she revealed in a TikTok video that she contracted a bacterial infection during a holiday in St Barts, which she attributed to hotel towels. This infection compounded her existing health concerns and preceded the identification of her kidney function issues. Although no official link has been established between the two health events, Frankel described the entire period as physically exhausting.
Motivated by her experience, Frankel aims to encourage others to prioritize their health, particularly emphasizing the importance of routine blood work. She has urged individuals not to disregard abnormal test results or postpone necessary follow-up appointments. Her message focuses on prevention and awareness, stressing that early detection can significantly influence the management of chronic conditions like kidney disease.
Frankel plans to continue consultations with specialists to monitor her kidney function and assess any potential progression of her condition. As of now, she has not indicated that her illness has advanced beyond stage 2. For the time being, her focus remains on staying hydrated, adhering to medical advice, and adjusting her lifestyle to support her long-term health as she navigates life with a chronic kidney condition.
