What disease did Henry VIII suffer from?

Henry VIII’s Troubling Health Decline

As one of England’s most infamous monarchs, Henry VIII is remembered not only for his six wives and break with the Catholic Church but also for his dramatic physical transformation—and deteriorating health. By middle age, the once-athletic king had become severely obese, a change that coincided with increasing medical woes.

Historians and medical experts have long debated the root cause of his decline. Some suggest Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that leads to weight gain, muscle weakness, and mood changes—symptoms that align with Henry’s later years. Others propose myxedema, a form of severe hypothyroidism, which could explain his lethargy and swelling. Both theories attempt to make sense of a body clearly in distress.

Beyond these potential syndromes, Henry suffered from a litany of painful conditions: chronic constipation so severe it required rhubarb to relieve, hemorrhoids that made sitting difficult, and recurring sore throats and migraines. He also battled insomnia and night sweats, which may have contributed to his increasingly erratic and tyrannical behavior.

There’s also the persistent rumor—though never proven—that Henry contracted syphilis. While there’s little direct evidence, the timing and nature of his symptoms keep the speculation alive. His reproductive struggles, including multiple miscarriages among his wives, only fuel the theory.

Whatever the true diagnosis, Henry’s health undeniably shaped history. His physical pain and mental instability may have intensified his paranoia, influencing decisions that altered the course of the English monarchy. In the end, the king’s body betrayed him as much as any courtier or wife ever could.