UNDER THE MICROSCOPE: Celia Birtwell, 83, the textile and fashion designer, answers our health quiz By Celia Birtwell Published: 01:59 BST, 27 August 2024 | Updated: 02:17 BST, 27 August 2024 e-mail View comments Can you run up the stairs? I can still go pretty quickly. But since I’ve had my heart problems – about four years ago, I had a stent fitted, then I developed atrial fibrillation – I’ve not enjoyed walking so much. My partner and I often go to our house in the country where I do a bit of gardening.
Get your five a day? I eat quite sensibly, I think. My appetite isn’t as big as it was and I’m much slimmer. Ever dieted? Oh yes.
I was dieting continually because you want to wear nice clothes. I’ve always had quite slim legs but a tummy. I’m 5ft and just under 10st.
I eat quite sensibly, I think. My appetite isn’t as big as it was and I’m much slimmer. Celia Birtwell answers our health quiz Any vices? I smoke occasionally and then I think ‘this is disgusting, put it out’, and then I relight it later.
A packet lasts for about a week. Any family ailments? My father died at 74, far too young. He had a problem with his aorta (the main artery) and got gradually weaker.
Mum lived to about 84 but she wasn’t in a good condition for the last three years. She was in a care home and stopped recognising us. Worst illness/injury? I had a hip replacement about ten years ago.
Then I had the stent, and a pacemaker about two years ago. I often get heart palpitations which are quite scary. Pop any pills? A blood thinner (edoxaban), and doxazosin, bisoprolol and losartan for blood pressure.
I also have a nitrolingual spray to calm my heart down. Ever have plastic surgery? Never. I know you can be all crumpled and then have your lips pumped out, but I think that looks ridiculous.
Is sex important? Not as much as it was, but I have a nice relationship with my darling Andy. We’ve been together for about 38 years. I've never had plastic surgery.
I know you can be all crumpled and then have your lips pumped out, but I think that looks ridiculous Hangover cure? It’s quite nice to get drunk but since I’ve had heart problems, I’m more cautious. What keeps you awake? I sleep rather well. I love the electric blanket in the winter.
I was the one who told Mr Hockney (David, the artist, a close friend) to buy one and he raves about it now. Like to live for ever? No. You can’t be too greedy about it .
.. Celia's new range can be found at joanieclothing.
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