Actress Daisy Ridley, renowned for her role in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, revealed she has been diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism. Ridley shared her early symptoms and how she is managing the condition through medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Graves’ disease results from the immune system attacking the thyroid gland, leading to its overactivity. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including rapid heartbeats, weight loss, anxiety, trembling hands, heat intolerance, protruding eyes, fatigue, and muscle weakness. The exact causes are still unknown but are believed to involve genetic and environmental factors.
One notable symptom of Graves’ disease is Graves’ ophthalmopathy, where swelling around the eyes makes them bulge. This not only affects appearance but can also lead to discomfort and vision issues. Smoking exacerbates this condition, increasing both its risk and severity.
Ridley disclosed that her symptoms developed gradually, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact issue initially. This gradual onset is common with Graves’ disease, often requiring specific tests to confirm the diagnosis. Despite the challenges it poses, Graves’ disease is treatable through a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle changes.
Medical treatments include daily medication to manage thyroid hormone levels, cryotherapy, and acupuncture. In severe cases where other treatments fail or are unsuitable, a thyroidectomy might be necessary to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
How to reduce your risk of Graves’ disease
Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing Graves’ disease. Practices such as yoga, meditation, and regular physical exercise can help reduce the risk and manage stress levels. These activities contribute to overall well-being and can mitigate some of the condition’s effects.
Ridley emphasized the importance of these lifestyle changes in her own journey with Graves’ disease. By incorporating yoga and meditation into her routine, she has found ways to relax and manage her symptoms more effectively.
Graves’ disease, while challenging, is manageable with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Individuals diagnosed with this condition can lead fulfilling lives by adhering to medical advice and adopting healthy practices. Daisy Ridley’s openness about her diagnosis sheds light on this autoimmune disorder and offers hope to others facing similar challenges.
Parts of this article has been sourced by Healthline and fact-checked by Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D.
Featured Image courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter
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