Daisy Ridley, best known for her role as Rey in the “Star Wars” franchise, has recently revealed a personal health struggle that has surprised her. The actress admitted that she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder, in September 2023. This diagnosis came after experiencing a series of symptoms that she initially brushed off as stress-related.
Ridley, 32, shared that her journey to the diagnosis was unexpected. She experienced hot flashes, a racing heart rate, weight loss, and fatigue, which she assumed were a result of her demanding acting roles. Reflecting on the time, Ridley said, “I thought, ‘Well, I’ve just played a stressful role; presumably that’s why I feel poorly,’” referring to her role in the 2024 film “Magpie.”
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to produce an excess of thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, a racing heart, weight loss, and hand tremors. Ridley’s doctor described her symptoms as feeling “tired but wired,” a sensation Ridley initially mistook for general irritation with the world.
The actress has since made significant changes to her lifestyle to manage the condition. Ridley has incorporated various health practices, including cryotherapy and acupuncture, into her routine. “I am not super strict about it, but generally cutting down on gluten makes me feel better,” she told Women’s Health. She also mentioned that she had not realized how poorly she felt before making these changes, and upon reflection, she wondered how she had managed her demanding career with such symptoms.
A longtime follower of a vegan diet, Ridley has also added infrared saunas and massages to her health regimen. These practices have helped her manage her condition and improve her overall well-being. “I’ve always been health conscious, and now I’m trying to be more well-being conscious,” she said.
Ridley also addressed the broader issue of health awareness, especially among women. “We all read the stats about women being undiagnosed or under-diagnosed and sort of coming to terms with saying, ‘I don’t feel good’ and not going, ‘I’m fine, I’m fine, I’m fine, I’m fine.’ It’s just normalized not to feel good,” she remarked. Her comments highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing health issues rather than dismissing them.
Despite acknowledging that her condition may be “much less severe than what a lot of people go through,” Ridley emphasized that no one should have to endure health problems without seeking help. “Even if you can deal with it, you shouldn’t have to. If there’s a problem, you shouldn’t have to [suffer through it],” she said.
In conclusion, Daisy Ridley’s revelation about her diagnosis of Graves’ disease sheds light on the importance of health awareness and proactive management. Her journey underscores the need for individuals to pay attention to their bodies and seek medical advice when experiencing unusual symptoms. Ridley’s experience serves as a reminder that even those in demanding professions should prioritize their health and well-being.
For those inspired by Ridley’s story, it’s a call to action to take health seriously and address issues promptly. With the right approach and support, managing health conditions can lead to a better quality of life.
