Crystal Kung Minkoff, known for her appearance on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” has recently shared her alarming experience with high blood pressure, which nearly led to a stroke. During a recent episode of her podcast, “Humble Brag With Crystal and Cynthia,” the 43-year-old reality star spoke candidly about her health scare that prompted a visit to her doctor.
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Minkoff disclosed that her blood pressure reading reached a concerning 160/110 mmHg, significantly above the normal range of 120/80 mmHg recommended by the American Heart Association. She expressed her fears during the podcast, stating, “I was like, ‘OK, so we’re in the realm of stroke now,’ ” while referring to high blood pressure as the “silent killer.”
In discussing her symptoms with medical professionals, Minkoff revealed that she has been experiencing a persistent “constant pressure” in her chest. Upon examination, her doctor noted that her heart rate was unusually low and suggested that this pressure indicated her heart was overworking. Following an electrocardiogram (EKG), it was confirmed that Minkoff’s heart was slightly enlarged.
After the diagnosis, her physician decided to adjust her medication regimen and emphasised that 80 per cent of her blood pressure concerns could be attributed to hereditary factors, while the remaining 20 per cent was manageable through lifestyle changes. Her doctor stressed the importance of incorporating more exercise into her routine, noting that as women age, muscle loss accelerates without proper strength training.
Minkoff was advised to engage in weightlifting and to enhance her cardiovascular health by committing to an exercise schedule of five days a week, emphasising that activities like hiking alone would not suffice. She recounted her doctor’s advice, stating, “He said, ‘You’re 43. Hiking is not enough for you to make your heart work.’”
The reality star reflected on the mental aspect of exercise, indicating that she needed to make physical activity a priority for her overall well-being. She stated, “I need to feel like I should exercise or else I’m not feeling mentally healthy.” Minkoff also recognised the urgency of her situation, urging her audience to take proactive measures regarding their health: “You need to start now or you’re going to really suffer in your 60s.”
Prior health challenges reported by Minkoff have also drawn attention to her struggles with high blood pressure. During a trip to Barcelona, she experienced a severe episode of dizziness and nausea, which led to her experiencing symptoms that raised alarm as potential indicators of a stroke. At that time, her blood pressure soared to 177/108, leading to an emergency hospital visit.
In an emotional confessional during that particular episode of RHOBH, Minkoff described the experience as frightening, admitting that her family history of high blood pressure made the situation all the more concerning. She noted how the reality of facing her own mortality shook her, saying, “I’ve never been faced with my mortality.”
Clearly shaken by her experiences, Minkoff’s journey highlights the critical importance of monitoring health, particularly for those with a family history of conditions like hypertension. Her revelations serve as a reminder of the value of regular medical check-ups, lifestyle adjustments, and prioritising physical fitness in the pursuit of better health outcomes.
As Minkoff navigates this stage of her life and her health challenges, she is determined to spread awareness of the risks associated with high blood pressure. Her advocacy extends beyond her personal journey, as she encourages listeners and fans to take action in their own lives, to ensure they are not only physically fit but mentally well too.