King Charles III, who recently faced a cancer diagnosis, is grappling with the challenges of sudden sobriety, creating significant tension within the royal household. According to palace insiders, the 75-year-old monarch has been advised by his medical team to completely abstain from alcohol during his treatment, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms and mood swings.
For years, King Charles maintained a routine that included several alcoholic beverages throughout the day. “Charles was told by his medical team to quit alcohol. Not even one drink was permitted!” a palace insider revealed to American tabloid National Enquirer. This abrupt change has been difficult for the King, who relied on a triple martini after breakfast, wine with lunch and dinner, and a cocktail or two before bed. The sudden cessation of alcohol has reportedly led to physical and mental withdrawal symptoms, including shakes and vicious mood swings.
Queen Camilla has expressed concern over her husband’s refusal to slow down despite his health issues. “He won’t slow down and won’t do what he’s told,” she reportedly said, according to Vanity Fair. While there are whispers that he continues to drink occasionally, it’s clear that the King’s overall consumption has decreased significantly. “Still, one or three drinks during the course of the day is considered bonkers when undergoing cancer treatment!” the insider added.
King Charles’ health troubles began in January when he was treated for a benign prostate enlargement, only to be later diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Despite his diagnosis, the King took less than three months off from his public duties and has appeared sparingly before his subjects since his return. His insistence on maintaining a busy schedule has led to further strain, both on his health and on those around him.
A source close to the palace remarked via the tabloid, “Charles refuses to scale back and delegate to others. People knew him as a stubborn prince who sulked until he got his way. But now he’s an obstinate king who feels time is ticking away.” The monarch’s deteriorating health has been evident, with noticeable changes in his appearance and demeanor. “He’s got an awful pallor to his complexion, and he’s stooped over,” observed the insider.
Medical experts have weighed in on the situation, with Dr. Stuart Fischer, a Manhattan internist who has not treated the King, explaining the potential effects of alcohol withdrawal. “The signs and symptoms would include heightened anxiety, possible depression, mood swings, inability to concentrate, racing thoughts, palpitations, and muscle tremors,” Fischer noted.
In addition to his health issues, King Charles is also dealing with personal and family challenges. His son, Prince Harry, has been publicly critical, and there are rumors of an ovarian cancer crisis involving his daughter-in-law, Princess Kate. These factors have compounded the King’s stress and contributed to his current state of agitation.
“To deprive Charles of his chief coping mechanism when he’s faced with so many obstacles seems cruel,” the insider observed. “His doctors say it is necessary if he wants to beat this disease. But there are some who say he won’t be able to do it!”
Despite the challenges, King Charles is determined to maintain his duties and public appearances, a stance that reflects his late mother Queen Elizabeth’s belief that the head of the kingdom “needs to be seen to be believed.” However, this determination comes at a significant personal cost, as he continues to struggle with the physical and emotional impacts of his health and the enforced sobriety.