Grey's Anatomy Star Camilla Luddington Opens Up About Her Hashimoto’s Diagnosis Journey
Grey's Anatomy Star Camilla Luddington Spills on Her Shocking Health Diagnosis: "I Was Freaked Out, But Also Relieved"
Camilla Luddington, the talented 42-year-old actress known for her iconic role as Jo Wilson in Grey's Anatomy, has been making waves with her latest health update. In a candid conversation with People at Step Up's 2025 Inspiration Awards on September 26, Camilla opened up about her recent diagnosis with Hashimoto's disease – an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland.
The Road to Diagnosis
It all started this summer when Camilla received the life-altering news that would change everything. At first, she was "freaked out" by the diagnosis, but as she delved deeper into understanding her condition, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. "I remember hearing the words 'autoimmune disease' and thinking, 'What the f?'" Camilla revealed on an August episode of her podcast Call It What It Is. "But you know what? I knew something was up. Because even when I was having my blood drawn, the doctor said to me, 'Is there any, you know, particular thing you're concerned about?' And I said, 'Look, I'm really f**g tired all the time.'"
The Symptoms Were Real
For years, Camilla had been experiencing symptoms that left her feeling like a sloth. "Long as you've been listening to us, you've known that I joke about being slothy," she told listeners on her podcast. "Just a little slower. Slower, tired, wanna be in bed, love a nap. It never occurred to me that there could be a medical reason for that." But with the help of blood work, doctors were finally able to pinpoint the cause – Hashimoto's disease.
The Treatment
Since her diagnosis, Camilla has been working closely with her healthcare team to manage her symptoms and find relief from the debilitating exhaustion. "I am on Levothyroxine, which is a thyroid medicine," she explained. "And I can tell you that a lot of things have changed." The medication has made a significant impact on her energy levels, reducing inflammation and allowing her to tackle daily activities with renewed enthusiasm.
"I feel like I have so much less inflammation. I was very puffy all the time, not knowing why I was exhausted," Camilla shared with People. "I was not working out. I hadn't seen a workout class in years, and [now] I'm back at Barry's bootcamp lifting weights. So I feel more myself. I feel like I have more energy for work, for my family."
Self-Care Takes Center Stage
As Camilla navigates this new chapter in her life, she's emphasizing the importance of self-care and making healthy lifestyle choices. "It feels like a lot of self-care at this point, just avoiding gluten and all these things that I'm sort of learning," she said. With her newfound energy, Camilla is tackling her roles as a wife, mother, and actress with renewed passion.
Being Present in the Moment
One of the most significant benefits of managing her Hashimoto's disease has been the clarity it's brought to her daily life. "I was having a lot of brain fog," Camilla explained. "And now I understand that when your thyroid is sort of all over the place, that's what that can feel like – the exhaustion of brain fog." With this newfound understanding, she's able to be more present with her loved ones and colleagues on set.
A Journey of Discovery
Camilla's journey with Hashimoto's disease has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, but it's also brought her closer to herself and those around her. "It's still new to me," she said humbly. "I got the diagnosis at the beginning of summer, so I'm fresh into this journey." But with every passing day, Camilla is becoming more empowered to take control of her health and live life to the fullest.
Support System
Through it all, Camilla has been surrounded by a loving support system – her family, friends, and fans. "My husband Matthew Alan and my kids Hayden and Lucas have been incredibly supportive," she said gratefully. And with their love and encouragement, Camilla is tackling this new chapter in her life with courage and determination.
A Message of Hope
As Camilla continues to navigate the ups and downs of living with Hashimoto's disease, she wants others who may be experiencing similar symptoms to know that they're not alone. "If you're feeling like me – tired all the time, puffy, brain fog – please go get tested," she urges. With the right diagnosis and treatment, anyone can regain control over their health and live a life filled with energy, passion, and purpose.