Brandi Glanville, known for her role on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, is bravely sharing her battle with what she describes as a "parasite" residing on her face, leading to considerable personal suffering and significant financial burden. For over eighteen months, the reality TV star has wrestled not only with the physical manifestation of this condition, but also with the emotional toll it has taken on her life.
Recently, Glanville sat down for candid discussions with several outlets about her struggle. "I’ve seen countless doctors, and I’ve gone through numerous tests," she revealed, recounting her frustrations over the mysterious ailment. "It’s been so stressful; I’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars just trying to find out what’s happening to me." She expressed disbelief at the range of diagnoses and treatments suggested by specialists, including the possibility of having a parasite living within her skin.
Initially, Glanville was diagnosed with angioedema, which causes swelling under the skin, often reminiscent of hive reactions. This diagnosis, as she explained, didn't alleviate her concerns, mainly because she hadn’t undergone any filler treatments for quite some time, and her previous filler injections had already dissolved. This meant the pain and swelling were seemingly unaccounted for and left her searching for alternatives.
Her situation took another turn when one physician proposed the unthinkable: the existence of a parasite. "That was new for me," said Glanville, reflecting on her reaction to hearing this potential cause. Following her trip to Morocco for filming the still-unreleased Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip, she started noticing alarming symptoms. She recounted how the food, often meat left out for hours, could have been contaminated. "Six months after returning from Morocco, I started to notice changes—problems with speaking and swelling—this all began back in July," she explained.
Alongside the physical pain and discomfort, Glanville has missed out on social interactions and public appearances due to her health crisis. More than just the financial strain, her emotional well-being has suffered—leading her to abandon her social life entirely. "I don’t socialize. I can’t go out. My entire life has changed because of this parasite, and I miss living my life normally," Glanville lamented.
Expenses have reached upwards of $70,000 through various treatment avenues. Many of her proposed treatments came with steep costs, including one regimen of antibiotics, which she stated could cost her around $2,000 per week. After completing six weeks of the expensive regimen, which gave her some temporary relief, she had to stop because of the financial burden, only to find her uncomfortable symptoms returning. "I wanted to quit it because it was just too much money," she stated bluntly. Yet, she's resolute about pursuing answers, sharing what she views as unique insights. "I suspect the parasite jumps around on my face! I’ve got videos showing it moving. It’s so bizarre, but it’s my lived experience right now," she explained.
Responding to skepticism and rumors, especially those fueled by social media, Glanville took to X (formerly Twitter) shortly before her interviews to address the swirling narratives. "Honestly, I have so many doctors and I’ve had so many tests. Some say I have this parasite, others chalk it up to stress-induced edema. I personally joke it’s Bravo," she tweeted with trademark humor, attempting to bring levity to her difficult situation.
The continuous public scrutiny has made Glanville's condition even more challenging. With critics second-guessing her health, she felt compelled to reveal her situation to dispel any confusion about her appearance. "The remarks I've received about plastic surgery infuriate me; it’s not surgery, it’s this serious health issue I’m facing. I can’t even afford surgery if I wanted it," she asserted fiercely. Glanville explained her decision to stay away from flashing lights and red carpets: "It's why I’m at home instead; I don’t want to go out and face the stares or whispers."
Social media users have shown mixed reactions to her updates, with some offering substantial support. "I relate to your struggle. It’s hard to deal with health problems, they can change everything," one user replied empathetically. Glanville's response was heartfelt, full of gratitude as she continues to navigate this chapter of her life. Her desire, above all, is to regain her health and once again enjoy the simple joys of life.
Although she’s faced endless hurdles, and the battle is far from over, Glanville remains hopeful for the future. “I’m planning for 2025 to bring new health resolutions. Honestly, health is wealth—at this point, it’s the only thing I want," she concluded.