Christina Applegate Hospitalized with Severe Kidney Infection Amid Ongoing MS Battle

The familiar voice that charmed audiences in “Dead to Me” now trembled with pain through hospital speakers. Christina Applegate recorded this week’s episode of her “Messy” podcast from a Los Angeles hospital bed, her agony so intense she described “screaming” as doctors scrambled for answers. The 53-year-old Emmy winner’s unexpected kidney infection hospitalization came after a family trip to Europe, plunging her into a fresh health crisis while battling multiple sclerosis (MS).

What Symptoms Led to Christina Applegate’s Emergency Hospitalization?

Applegate’s ordeal began with debilitating pain she initially mistook for an MS flare-up. “I woke up feeling like my appendix burst,” she told co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler on the August 6 podcast episode. After returning from Europe, she went directly to the hospital, demanding comprehensive tests: “I want every test you have.” By 2 a.m., screaming in agony, she underwent an emergency CT scan that revealed a shocking diagnosis: a severe kidney infection had spread to both kidneys.

The infection’s origin puzzled doctors, who questioned whether it stemmed from a urinary tract infection (UTI). Applegate responded with dark humor: “They asked about my hygiene. Honey, I’m 53—I know how to wash myself!” Her candor highlighted a grim reality for immunocompromised individuals like MS patients, who face higher risks of kidney complications. According to the National Kidney Foundation (2025), UTIs account for 10% of hospitalizations among chronic illness patients, often escalating rapidly without prompt intervention.

How Does MS Complicate Kidney Infections?

Applegate’s MS diagnosis in 2021—which halted “Dead to Me” production for months—creates unique vulnerabilities. Neurologist Dr. Sarah Mindel (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center) explains: “MS weakens bladder function, increasing UTI risks. When infections reach the kidneys, pain receptors flare identically to neurological MS pain, causing dangerous delays in treatment.” Applegate herself admitted past confusion between MS symptoms and this new crisis.

Hospital staff now administer intravenous antibiotics to combat the bilateral infection. Applegate vowed to remain hospitalized “until they fix me,” though she tearfully confessed to “holding in a bag o’ tears” between bouts of dark humor. Her transparency mirrors advocacy work praised by the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, which notes infections are a leading cause of MS-related hospitalizations.

Patient Advocacy in Chronic Illness Care

Applegate’s insistence on “every test” underscores a critical lesson for chronic illness patients:

• Demand urgency: Kidney infections can become life-threatening within 48 hours.
• Track symptoms: Differentiate between known condition flares and new warning signs (e.g., fever, flank pain).
• Challenge assumptions: As Applegate joked, “Doctors asked if I wipe front to back. Seriously?”

Her MS journey, documented since 2021, reflects a broader narrative. Johns Hopkins Medicine (2024) reports 60% of MS patients experience misdiagnosed infections annually due to symptom overlap. Applegate’s podcast, blending vulnerability with wit, turns personal struggle into public education—a model the Mayo Clinic calls “therapeutic advocacy.”

Christina Applegate’s kidney infection hospitalization underscores the invisible battles within chronic illness. Her courage to broadcast pain—and punchlines—from a hospital bed amplifies urgent lessons for patients and providers: listen closely, test thoroughly, and never underestimate a woman who knows her body. Share this story to spread kidney health awareness.

Must Know

What caused Christina Applegate’s kidney infection?
While unconfirmed, doctors theorize a urinary tract infection (UTI) spread to her kidneys. MS patients often experience bladder dysfunction, increasing UTI risks. Prompt treatment is critical to prevent sepsis.

How long will Applegate be hospitalized?
She requires IV antibiotics until the infection clears, typically 7–14 days for bilateral kidney involvement. Her commitment to “stay until fixed” suggests an extended stay.

Can kidney infections be fatal?
Yes. The CDC reports 30,000 annual U.S. deaths from untreated kidney infections. Symptoms like fever, vomiting, or back pain demand immediate care.

Does MS increase infection risks?
Absolutely. Immunosuppressive therapies and neurogenic bladder issues make MS patients 3x more prone to UTIs and kidney complications (National MS Society, 2024).

How can I support kidney health with chronic illness?
Hydrate daily, urinate frequently, and request urine cultures at routine checkups. Report back pain or fever immediately.

Has Applegate worked since her MS diagnosis?
Limited projects. She filmed “Dead to Me’s” final season seated and uses a cane. Her podcast prioritizes health transparency.