'Star Wars' actor Daisy Ridley diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder: Know all about it

Actor Daisy Ridley, known for movies like 'Star Wars', has been diagnosed with Graves' disease, a serious form of thyroid disorder. This is a disorder of the immune system that causes an overproduction of hormones in the thyroid.

The 'Star Wars' actress shared this update in the latest feature with Women's Health, Variety reported.

What is Graves' disease?

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, leading to its overactivity, a condition known as hyperthyroidism. This disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, causing it to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. The overproduction leads to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite, sweating, and nervousness.

One of the distinctive features of Graves' disease is the presence of Graves' ophthalmopathy, which affects the eyes. This condition can cause bulging eyes, redness, swelling, and discomfort. In severe cases, it can lead to vision problems. Another skin condition associated with Graves' disease is called Graves' dermopathy, characterized by thick, red skin usually on the shins or tops of the feet. These specific manifestations help in diagnosing the disease.

Graves' disease predominantly affects women and often develops before the age of 40. The exact cause of the autoimmune response is not well understood, but genetic and environmental factors, such as stress, infections, and smoking, are believed to play a role. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones and antibodies, along with imaging tests like ultrasound or radioactive iodine uptake.

Ridley began feeling symptoms of increased heart rate, rapid weight loss, exhaustion and trembling hands after shooting 'Magpie' thriller.

"I thought, 'Well, I've just played a really stressful role,' presumably that's why I feel poorly,'" Ridley said.

After describing her condition to the endocrinologist, they mentioned the feeling of Graves' is often described as "tired but weird." At that moment, Ridley realized how irritable she had become going through the early stages of the disease.


Post diagnosis, she has cut out gluten from her diet. She is undergoing wellness routine like infrared saunas, cryotherapy and acupuncture.

(With inputs from ANI)