Denise Welch has revealed she endured an intense medical emergency just two weeks ago, describing it as “the worst pain ever.” 

The Loose Women star, 66, took to social media to share a health update with fans, though her post was later deleted.

During her candid update, Denise explained that she had to wait 90 minutes for an ambulance

before spending an additional 24 hours in A&E awaiting a bed in the surgical ward.

While she did not immediately disclose the reason for her hospital visit, she later opened up on Loose Women,

revealing that she had been diagnosed with acute peritonitis—a severe infection of the stomach lining.

A Sudden and Painful Hospital Stay

Denise’s health scare came shortly after she returned from a relaxing holiday in the Caribbean. She had initially been looking forward to appearing on Loose Women and showing off her tan but instead found herself in excruciating pain and in urgent need of medical attention.

Speaking about her ordeal, she explained, “I got back from a lovely holiday in the Caribbean last Saturday. All bronzed, looking forward to coming on here and showing off my suntan. But I got rushed into hospital on the Saturday with acute peritonitis—a perforated diverticulitis.”

The infection was severe enough to require hospitalization, and she spent a week on a drip receiving treatment. Fortunately, doctors managed to control the infection with antibiotics, avoiding the need for surgery.

Denise tried to maintain her sense of humor despite the frightening experience, recalling her late mother’s words: “As my mother said, ‘Take me to the knacker’s yard!’”

Struggles Behind the Scenes

Denise had been absent from Loose Women since November, leading to speculation about her whereabouts. When she finally returned to the show, she became emotional as she addressed her long absence.

She revealed that her health problems had been brewing for some time and that she had been experiencing overwhelming anxiety.

In a heartbreaking moment, she shared how she first noticed something was wrong when she accidentally drove the wrong way up a one-way street—an incident that left her feeling shaken.

“It was so black, so dark, so quickly,” she confessed.

Denise explained that her anxiety worsened over the following weeks, leading to panic attacks that significantly impacted her daily life.

Her husband, Lincoln Townley, stepped in to help by removing commitments from her schedule, including a planned theatre performance and her own charity ball.

Despite her efforts to keep working, Denise struggled physically and mentally. After beginning rehearsals for a pantomime, she collapsed in a hotel lobby within just three days.

Realizing she could no longer push herself, she contacted her agent and pulled out of the show.

Battling Mental Health Challenges

In addition to her physical health struggles, Denise has long been open about her battles with depression. Just weeks before her hospital stay, she admitted to experiencing a relapse in her mental health.

She had previously spoken about how she had been free from clinical depression for five years, but unfortunately, the illness made an unexpected return. Speaking on Loose Women, she explained:

“Sadly, the unwelcomed visitor paid me another visit. I’ve not been well for a couple of weeks, and the reason why we’ve alluded to it is because we do all these things like Britain Get Talking and encourage people to open up. But sometimes, people still find it isn’t always good to talk for them.”

Denise acknowledged that depression is often misunderstood, noting that people tend to associate it with sadness.

However, she emphasized that clinical depression is much more than that—it is an isolating and debilitating illness that can strike unpredictably.

Looking Forward and Recovering

Despite the challenges she has faced over the past few months, Denise assured fans that she is on the mend. She expressed gratitude for the support of her friends and colleagues, acknowledging that their understanding helped her through this difficult period.

“I’ve made a recovery from this episode,” she shared, holding back tears.

As she continues to heal, Denise is focusing on rest and self-care. While her return to television has been emotional, she remains determined to raise awareness about both physical and mental health struggles, reminding fans that even in the darkest moments, recovery is possible.

Her openness about her experiences has resonated with many, and her bravery in sharing her story serves as an inspiration to those who may be facing similar battles.