Selma Blair has endured years of unexplained pain and extreme fatigue, during which her symptoms went unrecognized by doctors.
It wasn’t until her 40s that she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), even though she had been experiencing symptoms since childhood.
“I was diagnosed with a recurrence—[remitting]. In 2018, I learned I had multiple sclerosis. My first episode of optic neuritis occurred when I was about seven, and it turned out my eyes had been affected by nerve damage, suggesting I may have had early-onset MS. There were many moments in my life where I just didn’t connect the dots,” she shared at the Flow Space Women’s Health Summit.
Blair recalled facing severe pain and frequent hospital visits while her symptoms were overlooked. “As a kid, I underwent CAT scans, numerous doctor appointments, and spent weeks in the hospital,” she said. “I was feverish, in excruciating pain, and perpetually exhausted. My mom would ask, ‘Why aren’t you getting an MRI?’”
Reflecting on the disparities she faced, she mentioned a boy from her class who got an MRI for merely complaining of a headache. “It’s not that they were wrong for doing that for him, but I thought, ‘Really?’ I had headaches often, yet it seemed like I was ignored,” she remarked.
The late diagnosis finally clarified years of symptoms that were frequently dismissed as “growing pains.” Blair noted that publicly sharing her experiences has helped her connect with others facing chronic illnesses.
“I expressed my gratitude on Instagram to the team on set who supported me when I couldn’t manage tasks like dressing myself due to my condition. Though I still face challenges with my dystonia, especially with movement and speech,” she elaborated.
“After I began sharing my journey, I discovered a broader network of understanding and empathy for those managing chronic health challenges. I realized that my story provided comfort to many. At that time, resources for MS were limited. I still have so much to learn about living with MS, but it’s rewarding to know I’m helping others feel a sense of solace,” Blair added.
The 53-year-old actress, who first shared her MS diagnosis in 2018, mentioned in April that her symptoms have been “really gone.”
“I am doing incredibly well. The past year has been great,” she reported. “I’ve truly, really recovered enough… I continually strive to feel my best, and now I have more energy and going out doesn’t feel as intimidating.”
