‘Star Wars’ Actress Daisy Ridley Reveals Health Diagnosis at 32 Amid Battle with Two Medical Conditions — Details

On Tuesday, August 6, Daisy Ridley bravely disclosed her recent health struggles in an exclusive interview with Women’s Health. The 32-year-old actress revealed that she has been diagnosed with Graves’ disease. This announcement has shed light on her battle with the condition and her journey towards managing her health.

Ridley shared that she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease in September 2023 after her general practitioner suggested she see an endocrinologist. This recommendation followed her experiencing severe hot flashes and fatigue, symptoms that prompted further investigation.

Initially attributing her discomfort to the stressful role she played in the psychological thriller “Magpie,” Ridley soon learned the true cause was more profound. Her symptoms, including a racing heart, weight loss, fatigue, and hand tremors, pointed to Graves’ disease.

Ridley’s doctor noted that the disorder often makes people feel “tired but wired,” which resonated deeply with her. “I just thought I was annoyed at the world,” she remarked, “but everything was functioning so quickly, you can’t chill out.”

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause hyperthyroidism or an overactive thyroid. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s energy use.

Upon receiving her diagnosis, Ridley experienced a range of emotions, from sadness to irritation. Known for her health-conscious lifestyle, the news came as a shock. However, it also led her to adopt a more mindful daily routine.

Ridley began taking prescribed medications and adjusted her diet. Though she has been vegan for years, the English actress decided to go gluten-free to help reduce inflammation. “I am not super strict about it, but generally cutting down on gluten makes me feel better,” she said.

As Ridley adjusted to her new lifestyle, she noticed significant improvements in her well-being. She described a moment of clarity when she realized how much better she felt. “I didn’t realize how bad I felt before. Then I looked back and thought, How did I do that?”

Embracing her diagnosis, Ridley has focused on balancing her physical and mental health. She has integrated various wellness practices into her routine, including infrared saunas, cryotherapy, massages, and acupuncture.

The “Chaos Walking” star also indulges in regular bath time and carries rose quartz, believed to promote emotional balance and self-love.

The diagnosis has given Ridley a heightened awareness of her body and a reminder that not everything can be predicted. “I’ve always been health-conscious, and now I’m trying to be more well-being conscious,” she said. Ridley now pays closer attention to her body’s signals and makes sure to rest when needed.

Ridley’s journey has also highlighted the importance of listening to one’s body. She emphasized that many women tend to dismiss their symptoms, saying, “We all read the stats about women being undiagnosed or underdiagnosed 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 normalized to not feel good.”

Despite her challenges, Ridley remains positive and empathetic. She noted that her struggles are less severe compared to what many others endure. Yet, the Hollywood star is concerned for those who are going through a lot worse. “Even if you can deal with it, you shouldn’t have to. If there’s a problem, you shouldn’t have to just [suffer through it],” she advised.

Following Ridley’s revelation, fans expressed their support and admiration for her bravery. One user wrote, “thanks for sharing your health issues and recovery. This article means so much. ❤️ hope nothing but the best and happiness to you [sic].”

Another commented, “omg as someone with thyroid issues myself, this is oddly comforting and I love to hear her talking about it. Thank you @daisyridley [sic]!! ❤️”

The British actress’s candidness has resonated with many who face similar health battles. “As someone with hyperthyroidism, I didn’t know I could respect her more but she is amazing,” one fan shared.

Another user praised Ridley’s strength, stating, “She is so incredibly strong and brave to speak about her struggles so openly. And to have the kind of outlook she does. Daisy is truly an inspiration 💜.”

Ridley is no stranger to dealing with challenging health issues. Back in 2016, she opened up about her struggles with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in a now-deleted Instagram post. The actress shared her journey of enduring years of consultations, pain, and skin problems due to these conditions.

Diagnosed with endometriosis at the age of 15, Ridley underwent a laparoscopy and numerous consultations to manage her symptoms. Despite the initial treatment, her pain returned, albeit more mildly, and her skin problems persisted.

After eight years, she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, which helped explain her ongoing health issues. Ridley candidly discussed the impact on her confidence, sharing how her skin problems made her feel extremely self-conscious.

Fortunately, she has seen improvements in her condition over time. Ridley expressed optimism about her progress, crediting a dermatologist, dietary changes, and a reduction in sugar intake for the positive shift.

Ridley also encouraged others suffering from similar conditions to seek medical advice and take control of their health. “To any of you who are suffering with anything, go to a doctor,” she advised. “Pay for a specialist, get your hormones tested, get allergy testing, keep on top of how your body is feeling, and don’t worry about sounding like a hypochondriac.”

As Daisy Ridley continues to navigate her health challenges, she remains an inspiration to many, encouraging others to prioritize their health and well-being.