Bradley Walsh has been open about his struggle with Blepharitis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the eyelids that causes swelling, redness, and itchy eyes, which he has managed throughout his television career. Beyond this eye condition, the beloved presenter of The Chase has also shared significant insights into his cardiovascular health, revealing that he was warned by doctors of high cholesterol and a serious risk of heart disease following his father’s passing at a young age. This comprehensive guide explores the symptoms Bradley faces daily, the medical interventions he has undergone, and the lifestyle shifts he has implemented to remain one of Britain’s most active entertainers.
Understanding Blepharitis Symptoms
Blepharitis is a persistent condition that Bradley Walsh has described as making him look like he has “had a few drinks” due to the heavy swelling it causes around his eyes. It primarily involves the inflammation of the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes, leading to crusty debris and significant discomfort.
For Bradley, the condition often flares up under the intense studio lights of The Chase or Gladiators. To manage the redness and irritation, he often utilizes specific hygiene routines, as there is currently no permanent cure for the condition, only ongoing management strategies to keep the inflammation at bay.
The Heart Health Warning
At the age of 60, Bradley Walsh received a “life-changing” health warning from his cardiologist regarding his cholesterol levels and hereditary risks. Given that his father passed away from heart failure at just 59, Bradley has been acutely aware of the “silent killer” that heart disease represents in his family line.
He underwent a series of cardiac tests that revealed his arteries were at risk of narrowing, prompting an immediate overhaul of his diet and fitness levels. This proactive approach was not just about weight loss, but about managing the internal biomarkers that contribute to long-term cardiovascular stability.
Impact of Studio Lighting
The physical environment of a television studio can be particularly harsh for someone suffering from chronic Blepharitis. The heat and brightness of the lighting rigs can dry out the eyes, exacerbating the itchiness and swelling that Bradley has spoken about in numerous interviews.
Production teams often make minor adjustments to assist him, such as ensuring air conditioning doesn’t blow directly toward his face and allowing for breaks to apply soothing compresses. His transparency about this has helped normalize the condition for millions of viewers who suffer from similar ocular issues.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Bradley famously “gave up the booze” and fatty foods after his 60th birthday health check, losing significant weight in the process. He credits this disciplined approach with giving him the energy required to film multiple episodes of The Chase in a single day.
His current lifestyle emphasizes “everything in moderation,” but with a strict focus on cardiovascular health. He has often joked about missing his favorite “naughty” snacks, but remains steadfast in his commitment to being there for his son, Barney, and his wife, Donna.
The Role of Exercise
Despite a busy schedule, Walsh incorporates regular movement into his routine to keep his heart strong and his circulation active. For a man in his mid-60s, maintaining muscle mass and bone density is a priority, especially given the long hours he spends standing on set.
He often engages in low-impact activities like walking or light gym work, which are recommended for those with potential heart concerns. This consistency has allowed him to avoid the “burnout” that many performers face as they age in a competitive industry.
Practical Information and Planning
For those looking to manage health conditions similar to Bradley’s or wanting to follow his progress, the following details are essential:
Condition 1: Chronic Blepharitis (Management-based).
Condition 2: Cardiovascular Monitoring (Proactive).
Routine Checks: Annual blood tests and eye examinations.
What to Expect: Occasional visible swelling; high energy levels.
Tips for Others: Always consult a GP if you have a family history of early heart disease.
Recovery and Professional Longevity
Bradley’s ability to remain at the top of the UK television ratings despite these health challenges is a testament to his resilience. He has not allowed Blepharitis or heart concerns to slow his output, recently taking on the revival of Gladiators alongside his son.
His journey serves as a blueprint for “active aging,” showing that with the right medical guidance and lifestyle adjustments, chronic conditions do not have to be career-ending. He remains one of the hardest-working men in show business, with a full slate of projects scheduled through 2026 and beyond.
FAQs
Does Bradley Walsh have a serious illness?
While Bradley does not have a life-threatening acute illness, he manages two chronic conditions that he has described as “serious” in terms of their impact on his daily life:
Blepharitis: A chronic condition that causes his eyelids to become red, swollen, and itchy. He has mentioned needing to take a daily pill to manage it and has previously stated he may eventually require surgery to correct the inflammation that often changes his appearance on screen.
High Cholesterol: Bradley has described himself as a “ticking time bomb” regarding heart health. Because his father passed away from heart failure at just 59, Bradley is hyper-vigilant about his own heart. He works closely with a “heart guy” (cardiologist) to keep his hereditary cholesterol levels in check.
Has he made any recent lifestyle changes?
Yes. In early 2026, Bradley shared that his New Year’s resolution was to get “slimmer and fitter,” though he admitted it’s becoming “much harder” as he gets older (now 65). He has:
Hired a personal trainer.
Adopted a diet lower in bread, cakes, and potatoes.
Sought fitness and nutrition tips from the athletes on Gladiators.
Previously quit alcohol and fatty foods after hitting his heaviest weight of 14 stone 9 lbs (approx. 93 kg) a few years ago.
Is he colorblind?
Yes. Bradley recently revealed he is red-green colorblind. He mentioned this while discussing his interest in directing, noting that it can make tasks like choosing “color palettes” in film production quite difficult.
Is Bradley Walsh retiring from The Chase?
There are no official plans for him to retire in 2026. While some fans on social media have speculated about his future, Bradley has maintained that he will continue to host the show as long as the audience wants him there. He famously said, “Until people say they’ve had enough and start switching off, I’ll do it.”
What other shows is he doing in 2026?
He is currently very active with:
- Gladiators: Hosting the BBC reboot alongside his son, Barney Walsh.
- Blankety Blank: Continuing as the host of the comedy game show.
- Beat the Chasers: The high-stakes spin-off of the daytime hit.
For More Blogs Related insights click on :
Mary Berry Yorkshire Pudding: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Puds
Muslim Holidays 2024: The Complete Islamic Calendar Guide
To read more , Brighton City News