Explore Daisy Ridley's journey with Graves' disease, her lifestyle changes post-diagnosis, and the unique impact of the condition on women.
Daisy Ridley, best known for her role as Rey in the "Star Wars" series, recently disclosed her diagnosis of Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. She revealed this information during an interview with Women's Health, stating that she was diagnosed in September 2023 after experiencing symptoms such as a racing heart, weight loss, fatigue, hand tremors, and irritability, which she initially attributed to the stress of filming her latest project, "Magpie" .
Understanding Graves' Disease
Graves' disease is characterized by the overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to a range of symptoms. It predominantly affects young and middle-aged women and can include:
- Emotional irritability and mood swings
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Weight loss despite a healthy appetite
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Excessive sweating and heat sensitivity
- Tremors or shaking
- Difficulty sleeping
- Muscle weakness
- Increased bowel movements
- Changes in menstrual cycles for women
The exact cause of Graves' disease remains unknown, but it is believed to have a genetic component and can be exacerbated by factors such as smoking .
Daisy Ridley's Experience and Advocacy
In her interview, Ridley emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing health issues rather than normalizing discomfort. She reflected on her journey, noting that she did not realize how unwell she had been until after her diagnosis. Since then, she has made lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments like reducing gluten, which she found beneficial for her health .
Ridley also highlighted the broader issue of women being underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, urging others to advocate for their health. She expressed concern that many women may dismiss their symptoms or feel pressured to appear "fine" despite struggling with their well-being .
Daisy Ridley has made several lifestyle changes following her diagnosis of Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Here’s a summary of her adjustments, the impact of Graves' disease on women compared to men, and notable individuals who have managed the condition.
Lifestyle Changes Made by Daisy Ridley
After her diagnosis in September 2023, Ridley adopted the following changes:
- Dietary Adjustments: Although she has been vegan for several years, Ridley decided to cut down on gluten, which she found has generally improved her well-being, even if she is not overly strict about it.
- Wellness Practices: Ridley incorporated various holistic health practices into her routine, including:
- Spending time in infrared saunas
- Engaging in cryotherapy
- Receiving massages and acupuncture
- Using crystals for emotional support, specifically carrying rose quartz.
- Mindfulness and Rest: She emphasized the importance of being "more well-being conscious," ensuring she takes time to rest and manage stress effectively.
Ridley expressed that these changes significantly impacted her health, allowing her to recognize how unwell she had felt prior to her diagnosis.
Gender Differences in Graves' Disease
Graves' disease predominantly affects women, with about 80% of those diagnosed being female. The reasons for this disparity are not entirely understood, but several factors contribute:
- Hormonal Factors: Women experience hormonal fluctuations that may influence the onset of autoimmune diseases, including Graves' disease.
- Genetic Predisposition: There is a genetic component, as Graves' disease can run in families, and women are generally more susceptible to autoimmune disorders.
- Symptoms: While both men and women experience similar symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations, women may also face additional challenges related to menstrual irregularities and emotional responses, which can be more pronounced.
Famous People with Graves' Disease
Famous individuals like American rapper Missy Elliott have publicly shared their experiences with Graves' disease, discussing its impact on her hair and nervous system. She has since managed her condition and continues to advocate for awareness.
In Conclusion, Daisy Ridley's candid discussion about her diagnosis of Graves' disease sheds light on the condition and the challenges faced by those who suffer from it. Her advocacy for better awareness and understanding of women's health issues is a crucial step toward encouraging others to seek help and not ignore their symptoms.
About the Writer
Jenny, the tech wiz behind Jenny's Online Blog, loves diving deep into the latest technology trends, uncovering hidden gems in the gaming world, and analyzing the newest movies. When she's not glued to her screen, you might find her tinkering with gadgets or obsessing over the latest sci-fi release.What do you think of this blog? Write down at the COMMENT section below.
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