Below Deck's Kyle Viljoen Details 'Traumatic' Medical Emergency, Shares Harrowing Photos Of Ordeal

Kyle Viljoen is in recovery following the "most painful and traumatic bodily experience" of his life.

On Sunday, the Below Deck Mediterranean star disclosed on Instagram that he was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a "rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes." What began as "throat pain like none other" eventually "spread to my mouth, lips, hands, and feet."

After being misdiagnosed with hand-foot-mouth disease, his symptoms intensified. "I suffered from worsening blisters, inability to tolerate swallowing, tongue swelling, and change in vision," Viljoen said, prompting his fiancé to bring him to the emergency room Friday, where he was properly diagnosed.

The Bravo vet stated in his post that he's well on his way to making a full recovery thanks to the "impeccable medical staff, a loving fiancé, and support of friends and family." He added that he had just eaten his first meal in seven days and was "over the moon with optimism and hope."

He concluded his post by urging his followers to "advocate for your health and treat your body seriously. If something doesn't feel right, seek treatment," he wrote. He also stressed the importance of "family and a support system... Without them, I'm not sure where I'd be."

Viljoen made his Below Deck Mediterranean debut in Season 7. He currently stars in Season 8 of the Bravo reality offshoot, which currently airs Mondays at 9/8c.

Scroll down to read his Instagram entry in full, which also includes harrowing photos of his condition.