Daisy Ridley Opens Up About Graves' Disease Diagnosis
Star of the "Star Wars" franchise reveals her latest health challenge and how she's navigating a new normal.
Daisy Ridley, the beloved British actress known for her roles in "Star Wars" and "Murder on the Orient Express," has opened up about her recent diagnosis with Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland.
The 32-year-old star, known for her chameleon-like acting abilities and dedication to her craft, revealed the news during an exclusive interview.
Ridley, who previously spoke candidly about her endometriosis and polycystic ovaries diagnoses, shared that her Graves' disease journey began in September 2023. After experiencing persistent hot flashes and fatigue, her general practitioner encouraged her to see an endocrinologist.
The diagnosis came as a shock for Ridley, who attributed her discomfort to the stress of her role in the psychological thriller "Magpie." However, after outlining her symptoms, including a racing heartbeat, weight loss, fatigue, and hand tremors, the doctor mentioned the "tired but wired" feeling often associated with Graves' disease.
"It was funny, I was like, 'Oh, I just thought I was annoyed at the world,'" Ridley shared, "but turns out everything is functioning so quickly, you can't chill out."
Despite the initial sadness, Ridley admitted to a sense of irritation as well. As someone dedicated to her physical well-being, the diagnosis felt like an unwelcome curveball. However, the experience has pushed her towards a more routine approach to her health, with a renewed focus on medication and a mindful diet.
Ridley, who has been vegan for years, has also adopted a gluten-free lifestyle following her diagnosis. "I am not super strict about it, but generally cutting down on gluten makes me feel better," she explained, noting the potential benefits for those prone to inflammation.
The diagnosis has also prompted Ridley to become more attentive to her body's signals. She's embracing a slower pace, prioritising rest, and incorporating holistic practices like infrared saunas, cryotherapy, massages, and acupuncture into her routine.
Ridley's candidness about her health challenges serves as a reminder for women to listen to their bodies and advocate for their well-being. "We all read the stats about women being undiagnosed or underdiagnosed," she said, "and sort of coming to terms with saying, 'I really, actually don't feel good' and not going, 'I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine.' It's just normalised to not feel good."
Ridley's unwavering spirit and her focus on self-care are an inspiration to many. While navigating her new reality, Ridley is finding solace in her love of reading and her commitment to exercise. She works with a personal trainer to create a regimen tailored to her needs, incorporating functional movements and activities that keep her body strong and mind engaged.
As Ridley continues to adapt to her diagnosis, she hopes her story encourages others to embrace their own journeys, finding acceptance and a sense of peace within the challenges they face. She encourages those facing similar health struggles to seek support and find their own path to wellness.
This article is based on a rewritten version of the original provided text. It is intended to be informative and factually accurate, using UK English vocabulary and journalistic structure.
