Kathy Bates: My illness makes me angry

Kathy Bates struggles with depression when it comes to dealing with her lymphedema.

The 67-year-old actress suffers from the condition, which causes swelling in the arms and legs due to a build up of fluid in the soft tissues of the body.

American Horror Story star Kathy does her utmost not to let the lymphedema affect her daily life, but admits she often struggles with depression.

"I have a very mild case, but I have to wear compression garments from time to time, and it really does affect quality of life," Kathy told People magazine.

"I think sometimes you get depressed, and think 'Why do I have to deal with this everyday' I get angry about it and I get worn out with it and I get frustrated."

However, Kathy has decided to use her position to attempt to raise awareness about the disease.

And she is thrilled that she is able to answer questions people may have about the condition, which affects around 10 million Americans, when she attends charity events as an ambassador for the Lymphatic Education & Research Network.

"Now when I attend social events wearing my [compression] sleeves, I feel less self-conscious," she said "I want people to ask me about it.

"Maybe if people can put my face on lymphedema. Then more people will be willing to come out of the shadows and talk about it."

Kathy has been struggling with her health for the past few years. Three years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to undergo a double mastectomy.