What is Graves’ disease? All about the condition affecting Daisy Ridley
nypost.comrevealed this week that she has Graves’ disease.The “Star Wars” actress shared that after experiencing hot flashes, a racing heart rate, weight loss and fatigue, she was diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder in September 2023.
Ridley admitted that the diagnosis was something of a shock as she initially assumed her symptoms were related to work stress. “I thought, ‘Well, I’ve just played a really stressful role; presumably that’s why I feel poorly,’” she told Women’s Health, referring to her role in the 2024 film “Magpie.”Here’s a look at what causes Graves’ disease and how it’s treated.According to the Mayo Clinic, Graves’ disease affects the thyroid gland.
The autoimmune disorder causes the body to produce too much thyroid hormone, a condition called hyperthyroidism. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, heart rate and body temperature.Graves’ disease affects 2% to 3% of the global population and usually appears before age 30.
Women, those with a family history of thyroid conditions, smokers and those with other immune system conditions, such as Type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, are at higher risk of developing Graves’ disease.Experts don’t know exactly what causes autoimmune diseases like Graves’.
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