- Throughout the years, King Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, has been a steadfast and supportive figure, particularly amid his recent health struggles.
- Nevertheless, the Queen has also grappled with her own health issues, some of which have been disclosed to the public, while others have remained confidential.
- This is a chronicle of Queen Camilla’s health journey, encompassing her previous medical procedures and injuries, as well as her present health and fitness status.
Queen Camilla departs a musical evening on February 08, 2024 in Salisbury, England | Source: Getty Images
Queen Camilla, the wife of King Charles III, has consistently demonstrated her commitment and dedication throughout their union, particularly in light of the King’s health issues. The Queen, however, has also encountered her own health-related hurdles over the years, some of which have been shared with the public, while others have remained confidential.
Queen Camilla waves during a visit to the newly opened Meadows Community Centre on February 2, 2024 in Cambridge, England | Source: Getty Images
Toward the end of January 2024, Queen Camilla was spotted at the hospital, paying a visit to King Charles on his second day of hospitalization after undergoing a procedure for an enlarged prostate. Following the treatment, the King was reported to be recuperating well.
Queen Camilla is driven away from the London Clinic in London on January 28, 2024 after visiting King Charles III | Source: Getty Images
Camilla, with a beaming smile, was seen exiting the London Clinic in Marylebone, which happens to be the same medical facility where Catherine, Princess of Wales and the King’s eldest daughter-in-law, was receiving care post-abdominal surgery.
Queen Camilla is driven away from the London Clinic in London on January 27, 2024 after visiting King Charles III | Source: Getty Images
The Queen’s visit underscored her deep love and unwavering support for her husband, who has been subjected to considerable pressure and scrutiny since he took over the throne. Reflecting on her own health journey, she has faced a number of challenges over the years.
King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort at Buckingham Palace in London, England on January 27, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
In February 2007, it was made public that the then Duchess of Cornwall was set to be admitted to the hospital for a few days after wrapping up a Middle East tour with her husband, which was due to conclude on February 28. She was slated to undergo a hysterectomy, a surgical operation that involves the removal of all or part of the uterus.
Queen Camilla attends a dinner event at the Marriott Hotel on June 24, 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda | Source: Getty Images
This procedure can be performed for a variety of reasons, including cancer, abnormal growths, menstrual issues, or post-birth complications. The spokesperson clarified that the operation was not due to cancer but did not elaborate further.
King Charles and Queen Camilla attend a dinner event at the Marriott Hotel on June 24, 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda | Source: Getty Images
Shortly after the conclusion of the 10-day tour in early March, Camilla had a hysterectomy at the King Edward VII Hospital in London. She made a good recovery and promptly resumed her royal responsibilities. In April 2010, Camilla was hospitalized in Aberdeen after breaking her leg while out for a walk near Charles’ Highland retreat on the Balmoral estate.
King Charles and Queen Camilla attend Kigali Fashion Week on June 23, 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda | Source: Getty Images
She had a fall during her annual Easter break with Charles at Birkhall, the country residence he inherited following the demise of his grandmother, the Queen Mother. She later recounted her experience of breaking her leg in Scotland, explaining that she had fallen into a hole while walking on the moors and was rescued by two very kind women.
Queen Camilla arrives for her visit to Maggie’s new cancer support center on January 31, 2024 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
“They took one look at me in this hole and said, ‘Oh, it’s you.’ They were so kind. They took me to a hospital and stayed with me the whole time—and not one word to the press! I was so grateful I sent each of them a case of champagne,” she recalled.
King Charles III with Queen Camilla leaves The London Clinic on January 29, 2024 in London, England | Source: Getty Images
In 2022, around the time of the Queen’s passing, Camilla broke a toe. A source stated: “She is in quite a lot of pain, but she is just getting on with it. It is unfortunate timing, to say the least, but she’s been an absolute trouper.” However, the King’s spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, stating, “Health-related issues are confidential.”
Queen Camilla and King Charles III after attending church service to mark the first anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2023 in Crathie, Aberdeenshire | Source: Getty Images
It is believed that she sustained the injury before the late Queen passed away and carried on with her duties despite experiencing discomfort. During a particularly demanding week following the demise of her mother-in-law, Camilla steadfastly supported her spouse.
While still nursing a broken toe, Camilla proved to be an unwavering source of support for her husband. Their commitments included the King’s first address to the nation, an Accession Council ceremony, and various services in Scotland and Northern Ireland. They also joined the procession for the late Queen’s lying-in-state service and traveled to Cardiff to accept condolences.
Queen Camilla and King Charles III visit Fort Jesus, the UNESCO World Heritage Site on November 03, 2023 in Mombasa, Kenya | Source: Getty Images
In late October 2023, Queen Camilla and King Charles undertook a four-day official visit to Kenya. During their tour, Camilla’s hands were seen trembling while she was at the Situation Room in Kenya, meeting with staff, volunteers, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Queen Camilla visits Mtongwe Naval Base on November 02, 2023 in Mombasa, Kenya | Source: Getty Images
A health professional suggested that the rigors of such extensive international tours could have taken a toll on her physical and mental well-being, especially considering her age. The professional highlighted that the pressures of executing royal responsibilities far from home could lead to a range of physical, social, and psychological complications, possibly causing her hand tremors.
Queen Camilla feeds a baby elephant during a visit to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi National Park on November 1, 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya | Source: Getty Images
The professional also indicated that the journey itself, coupled with the multitude of engagements, could have had an impact on the Queen’s health. The usual duration of a flight from London to Nairobi is approximately eight hours and 40 minutes. She added, “The traveling itself could increase her cortisol levels, change in temperatures and altitude on her body may not be ideal for someone of her age.” The royal pair made their way back to London on November 3.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a visit at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery on November 1, 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya | Source: Getty Images
Royal followers had previously voiced concerns about Camilla’s health after observing her hand shaking as she delivered her speech at a reception at Clarence House for the International Women’s Day celebration. This occurrence, which was extensively shared and discussed on social media, took place just three weeks after she had been diagnosed with coronavirus.
Queen Camilla poses for a group photo with attendees during a reception to mark International Women’s Day at Clarence House, in London, on March 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
One of the most personal and painful challenges the Queen has faced is osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. Her mother and grandmother both died from the condition, which caused them immense pain and suffering. In a 2021 interview for World Osteoporosis Day, Camilla shared a touching memory of how her mother’s rib broke from a simple hug from a friend.
Queen Camilla gives a speech during the visit to the Royal Osteoporosis Society reception on January 25, 2023 in Bath, England | Source: Getty Images
She also disclosed that many doctors dismissed her mother’s symptoms as mere signs of old age. Initially, Camilla and her family were unaware of the disease’s severity, even questioning if her mother was overreacting. However, they soon realized that her mother would scream at the slightest touch or movement. She painfully watched her mother physically diminish over time.
Queen Camilla during her visit to the Royal Osteoporosis Society reception on January 25, 2023 in Bath, England | Source: Getty Images
Camilla has been an ardent advocate for osteoporosis awareness and prevention since 1994, following her mother’s death from the disease. She assumed the role of patron of the Royal Osteoporosis Society in 1997 and its President in 2001. Her advocacy work includes hosting receptions, attending events, meeting with people living with the condition, and delivering meaningful speeches.
Queen Camilla during the visit to the Royal Osteoporosis Society reception on January 25, 2023 in Bath, England | Source: Getty Images
In 2019, she commemorated the 25th anniversary of her mother’s death on social media, expressing her astonishment at the advances made in diagnosing and treating osteoporosis. She expressed a wish that her mother could have benefited from these developments and urged future generations to prioritize their bone health.
Currently, osteoporosis screening is recommended for women aged 65 and above and for women aged 50 to 64 who have certain risk factors, such as having a parent who has fractured a hip. Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Camilla, in her mid-seventies, leads an active lifestyle and adheres to a healthy diet, contributing to her remarkable fitness. She is a regular presence at royal engagements and advocates for yoga and Pilates. Back in 2017, she spoke about the advantages of yoga, especially for the elderly, emphasizing its role in enhancing flexibility, muscle strength, and overall agility.