Aging, overweight and stressed-out diva Barbra Streisand was spotted looking worse for wear at an L.A. hospital, sparking heart attack fears among friends!
The 77-year-old superstar appeared ashen and frightened as doctors examined her leg in the lobby at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in early June.
Noted New York internist Dr. Stuart Fischer said physicians might have found a “deep vein thrombosis” in her leg and the large clot could enter her bloodstream and cause a fatal heart attack.
“Barbra has looked and acted like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders,” a source spilled. “It’s no wonder she’s on the verge of collapse!”
The incident comes on the heels of reports of stress in the singer’s 21-year marriage to James Brolin, and concerns about her upcoming tour dates. She has also struggled with a previous eating disorder that puts her at risk of several potentially deadly medical conditions, including heart failure.
Barbra Streisand at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
“She has reportedly had a host of health and psychological issues through the years,” said Dr. Fischer, author of The Little Book of Big Medical Emergencies.
Barbra also has revealed a history of heart disease within her own family. She said, “I have had both close friends and family members impacted by heart disease. Sadly, I think most people have had someone in their lives who has suffered a heart attack and/or has all the risk factors for cardiovascular disease.”
Sources close to the Funny Girl Oscar winner said her weight gain on top of strains over her career and marriage have visibly affected her health.
“She looks completely stressed and old. People are deeply concerned for her!” snitched an insider.
Barbra Streisand at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
According to sources, Barbra has also battled with James’ insistence on continuing his newly booming career — despite the recent cancellation of his sitcom, Life in Pieces.
“Barbra thinks they’re at a place in their lives when they should be focusing on each other,” an insider snitched.
As The National ENQUIRER has reported, sources said the troubled couple also battled over the 78-year-old Brolin’s shameless flirting with Stana Katic, 41, on the set of Castle.
Barbra, who did not respond to our request for comment, has admitted to nursing her sorrows by wolfing down pancakes smothered with butter and syrup — and doctors consulted by The ENQUIRER believe that can be a deadly form of comfort!
“Overeating can obviously lead to an increased risk for heart disease and hypertension — plus dozens of other illnesses,” said Dr. Fischer. Longevity expert Dr. Gabe Mirkin added: “Weight gain, particularly excess fat in the liver, becomes far more dangerous as a person ages.”
The doctors quoted in this story have not treated Barbra Streisand.
