Erin Moriarty Graves Disease Diagnosis: What You Need to Know

By Aqsa
June 15, 2025
Reading Time: 6 mins

The Boys actress Erin Moriarty recently shared her struggle with these symptoms before being diagnosed with Graves disease, a serious autoimmune disorder.

Moriarty, who plays Starlight in the hit series, opened up about her health battle on Instagram, urging fans not to ignore their symptoms.

What Is Graves Disease?

Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). This leads to a sped-up metabolism, affecting the heart, muscles, bones, and even mental health.

Facts About Graves Disease

Feature	Details
Also Known As	Toxic diffuse goiter, Basedow’s disease
Main Effect	Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Most Affected Group	Women under 40
Common Symptoms	Anxiety, rapid heartbeat, weight loss, bulging eyes
Treatment Options	Medication, radioactive iodine, surgery

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What Causes Graves Disease?

The exact cause is unknown, but doctors believe these factors play a role:

1. - Genetics– Runs in families.
  - Gender & Age– Most common in women under 40.
  - Smoking– Increases risk and worsens symptoms.
  - Stress & Infections– May trigger the condition.

Unlike regular hyperthyroidism (which can have many causes), Graves disease is specifically an autoimmune issue.

Common Symptoms of Graves Disease

Erin Moriarty described feeling “not normal” before her diagnosis. Here are the most frequent signs:
Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
Anxiety, irritability, or tremors
Unexplained weight loss (even with normal eating)
Heat sensitivity & excessive sweating
Fatigue & muscle weakness
Bulging eyes (Graves ophthalmopathy) – Occurs in 1 in 3 patients.
“I didn’t know how long I could live in this state,” Moriarty shared in a text to her mom.

How Is Graves Disease Diagnosed?

Doctors use these tests:
1. Blood Test– Checks thyroid hormone (T3, T4) and TSH levels.
2. Antibody Test– Looks for thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI).
3. Radioactive Iodine Uptake (RAIU)– Measures thyroid activity.
4. Ultrasound/CT Scan– Checks for thyroid enlargement (goiter).
Moriarty admitted she ignored her symptoms for too long, blaming “stress and fatigue.” Early diagnosis can prevent complications like heart disease and osteoporosis.

Treatment Options for Graves Disease

Thankfully, Graves’ disease is treatable. Moriarty said she felt “the light coming back on” within 24 hours of starting treatment. Options include:
1. Anti-Thyroid Medications
- Methimazole or Propylthiouracil (PTU)– Slows hormone production.
- Side Effects: Liver damage (rare), rash, joint pain.
2. Beta-Blockers
- Controls rapid heart rate, tremors, and anxiety.
- Doesn’t cure the disease but helps symptoms.
3. Radioactive Iodine Therapy
- Destroys overactive thyroid cells.
- May lead to hypothyroidism(underactive thyroid), requiring lifelong hormone pills.
4. Thyroid Surgery (Thyroidectomy)
- Removes part or all of the thyroid.
Last-resort option if other treatments fail

Can You Live a Normal Life with Graves Disease?

Yes! With proper treatment, most people manage Graves’ disease well. However, untreated cases can lead to:
Heart problems (irregular heartbeat, heart failure)
Brittle bones (osteoporosis)
Thyroid storm (life-threatening hormone surge)
Moriarty’s message: “Don’t ‘suck it up’—get checked!”

FAQs About Graves Disease

Q: Is Graves disease fatal?

A: No, but untreated cases can lead to serious heart and bone problems.

Q: What’s the difference between Graves disease and hyperthyroidism?

A: Hyperthyroidism is a general term for an overactive thyroid. Graves’ disease is the most common autoimmune cause of hyperthyroidism.

Q: Can stress cause Graves disease?

A: Stress doesn’t directly cause it, but it may trigger symptoms in people already at risk.

Q: Does Graves disease affect the eyes?

A: Yes, about 30% of patients develop bulging eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy).

Q: Can you prevent Graves disease?

A: No, but avoiding smoking and managing stress may lower risks.

Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms

Erin Moriarty story reminds us that persistent fatigue, anxiety, or rapid weight loss should never be ignored. Graves disease is treatable, but early diagnosis is key.

If you or someone you know has these symptoms, see a doctor. Like Moriarty, you might just get your life back.

Did you find this helpful? Share it to spread awareness!

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Aqsa

Aqsa is a passionate entertainment writer at CrystalPakistan.com, specializing in the latest movies, TV shows, celebrity news, and pop culture trends. With a knack for insightful analysis and a love for storytelling, she brings readers fresh takes on everything from viral moments to red carpet highlights. Whether it's breaking news or behind-the-scenes scoops, Aqsa keeps her audience informed and entertained. Follow CrystalPakistan Entertainment on social media for updates that are as exciting as your favorite binge-worthy series!

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