Dermatologist Sandra Lee, widely recognized as "Dr. Pimple Popper," is speaking out about the lasting effects of an ischemic stroke she experienced last November. While her physical symptoms have largely resolved, Lee reports grappling with symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and persistent subtle speech and facial differences stemming from the health emergency.
Lee, 55, experienced the stroke while filming a new season of her Lifetime show, Dr. Pimple Popper: Breaking Out. She has detailed that the event involved a portion of her brain dying due to blocked blood vessels. Initially, she struggled with slurred speech and weakness on her left side, symptoms she initially dismissed as stress or a dream. An MRI confirmed the ischemic stroke.
Persistent Echoes of the Event
Though Lee underwent two months of recovery, including physical and occupational therapy, and has returned to production, she notes ongoing challenges. She observes slight differences in her speech and facial expressions, particularly when feeling stressed, nervous, or overworked. The dermatologist, known for her precise procedures on camera, admits to being "freaked out" upon returning to filming. She also underwent a successful PFO closure procedure, which has reportedly improved her condition.
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Contributing Factors and a Call for Awareness
Lee has identified unmanaged cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, exacerbated by the stress of balancing her medical practice with her television career, as likely contributors to the stroke. She hopes that by sharing her experience, she can help reduce the stigma associated with strokes and encourage others to take warning signs seriously. Lee is currently on blood thinners and continuing at-home physical therapy.
Background:An ischemic stroke occurs when blood clots or other particles block arteries supplying blood to the brain. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. Dr. Sandra Lee rose to prominence for her dermatology work, particularly through viral videos and her show Dr. Pimple Popper, which documents her procedures. The new season of Dr. Pimple Popper: Breaking Out is set to premiere on Lifetime on April 20th.
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