1. Obesity: Henry VIII is known to have been obese, with historical records indicating that he weighed around 285 pounds (129 kg) in his later years. His excessive weight put strain on his body and joints and likely contributed to other health complications.
2. Cardiovascular Disease: Henry VIII had a history of heart problems, including chest pains, shortness of breath, and fainting episodes. He likely suffered from coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack.
3. Type 2 Diabetes: Scholars suggest that Henry VIII displayed symptoms of type 2 diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and poor wound healing. The condition, which was not well understood at the time, could have contributed to his overall ill health.
4. Gout: Henry VIII suffered from gout, a painful condition characterized by inflamed joints, often in the feet and big toes. This was likely related to his diet and lifestyle, including heavy consumption of meat, alcohol, and other rich foods.
5. Kidney Disease: Henry VIII's obesity, diabetes, and other health issues contributed to deteriorating kidney function. He experienced difficulty urinating and is believed to have had kidney stones.
6. Leg Ulcers: In his final years, Henry VIII endured leg ulcers, which were open sores that refused to heal. These may have been a result of poor circulation and diabetes-related complications.
7. Head Injuries: Henry VIII suffered a severe head injury in 1536 when he fell from his horse during a jousting tournament. The injury, along with potential long-term effects, could have impacted his mental and physical health.
It's important to note that the diagnosis of Henry VIII's ailments is primarily based on historical accounts and symptoms described in contemporary documents, as modern diagnostic techniques were not available at the time. However, his combination of obesity, poor dietary habits, and lack of regular exercise likely contributed to the development and exacerbation of his health conditions.