Missy Elliott, a skilled rapper who is 52 years old, often makes news for her health instead of her music. The gifted actress has been upfront about receiving a Graves' disease diagnosis in 2008 and has previously discussed how it has impacted her life and profession. She was given the diagnosis after suffering significant weight loss, and it has had a detrimental impact on her.
Graves’ disease!
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH) describes Graves disease as an autoimmune disorder that can cause hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid.' Thyroid hormones, according to the NIH, 'control how your body uses energy,' which means they have an impact on every organ in the body, including how the heart beats.
According to the NIH, 'your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, causing it to produce more thyroid hormones than your body requires.' The actions of the body may accelerate as a result.
Missy Elliott, bad times!
'It makes your eyes sag,' she said to Billboard in 2015. 'I've always had high blood pressure because of working too much. Sharaya J Missy's friend, discussed how the illness affected her after receiving a diagnosis. She acknowledged that it had started to change how she lived.
'Physical changes, severe headaches, and considerable weight loss occurred. Being a public figure and being aware that people are watching and criticizing them—what does that do to a person? That’s a tough thing.
Missy about Graves’ disease!
After Missy lost a lot of weight in 2008, her Graves illness was initially identified. Missy described how the illness affected her in a speech at Essence magazine's 9th annual Black Women in Music event in 2018. 'I was sick and can't even lift a pen,' she said. 'My neurological system was completely damaged. I didn't enter this building in a wheelchair. I wasn't helped up here by anyone. I am moving forward via God's mercy.
How about Missy now?
A few years after her diagnosis, Missy stated, I was on medicine for a brief period, but I have been off it for quite some time now. I use a healthy diet and exercise to control the condition.' She has also spoken about managing her condition and living an appreciation-filled life. In September 2023, Missy also sent encouraging tweets to her followers. 'Those who are disheartened sometimes just have to STEP OUT ON FAITH! Yes, it's not always simple, but if you BELIEVE you have what it takes, you must keep going even when doors close because someday another one will open that will be for you.