Actress Daisy Ridley Opens Up About Graves’ Disease Diagnosis
Actress Daisy Ridley, best known for her role as Rey in the Star Wars films, has recently revealed her battle with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that predominantly affects young and middle-aged women. The 32-year-old star shared her story for the first time, shedding light on her struggles with symptoms such as a racing heart rate, weight loss, fatigue, and hand tremors.
Initially attributing her symptoms to the stress of filming a recent movie, Ridley was eventually diagnosed with Graves’ disease after a doctor suggested the possibility. She described feeling “tired but wired” and realized she had been unusually irritable. Ridley emphasized the importance of not dismissing feelings of unwellness, urging women to advocate for their health and not accept feeling subpar as the norm.
Despite acknowledging that Graves’ disease is less severe than other conditions, Ridley emphasized the significance of seeking help and not simply enduring symptoms. After making lifestyle and diet changes following her diagnosis, she noticed a significant improvement in her overall well-being. Reflecting on her journey, Ridley expressed gratitude for feeling better and highlighted the importance of addressing health concerns proactively.
Graves’ disease is characterized by an overactive thyroid, with symptoms including irritability, weight loss, palpitations, sweating, and muscle weakness. It predominantly affects women and often has a genetic component. Smoking is also a risk factor for developing the condition.
Ridley’s openness about her experience with Graves’ disease serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and seeking proper medical care. Her story resonates with many facing similar challenges, offering hope and encouragement to those navigating autoimmune conditions.
