Vybz Kartel opens up about struggle with Graves’ disease

Jamaican music icon Vybz Kartel has revealed that he has been focusing on his health since his release from prison on July 31st.

In an interview with FOX 5, Kartel shared that he’s working on a new health regimen with the help of his doctor to manage his condition.

““Healthwise, you know I’m working on my health right now, but the feeling of just being free is just an amazing feeling. I could be better, but I’m super upbeat. I have appointments with my doctor on Monday so that I can have regular meetings with her, and she can keep track of me in real-time.” Kartel said.

Kartel was released after a court ruled against a retrial in the murder case of Clive “Lizard” Williams, whose body was never found.

After his release, fans noticed Vybz Kartel’s changed appearance due to his battle with an autoimmune disease in prison. His face appeared swollen, his eyes bulged, and he looked weak. Moreover, he seemed frail and tired.

Reacting to the news of Kartel’s battle with Graves’ disease, netizens expressed their sympathies and wished the singer the best recovery.

Earlier this year, his medical condition was reported by Fox 5 News when they obtained a sworn medical affidavit from his private doctor.

The affidavit revealed that Vybz Kartel had Graves’ disease and a worsening heart condition that could have been fatal without surgery. Additionally, these health problems caused swelling in his neck and face and made his eyes protrude.

This is not an isolated case. In fact, several celebrities, including Wendy Williams, Sia, and Missy Elliott, have also been diagnosed with Graves’ disease.

What is Graves’ disease?

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

In this case, the target is the thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck. The thyroid’s main function is to produce hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and many other functions.

In Graves’ disease, the immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland, making it overwork and leading to excessive production of thyroid hormones, a condition known as hyperthyroidism.

This condition manifests in various ways, including irregular heartbeat, excessive sweating, and sensitivity to heat or cold. Weight loss despite increased appetite is another symptom.

Another highly recognizable symptom is a condition known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy. This condition causes inflammation and bulging of the eyes, leading to discomfort, dry eyes, and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can impact vision and cause double vision.

Management and Treatment

Graves’ disease is a lifelong (chronic) condition. However, treatments can keep your thyroid hormone levels in check. Medical care may even make the disease temporarily go away.

There are several approaches to reduce the overproduction of thyroid hormones and alleviate the symptoms of Graves’ disease.

Antithyroid Medicines: These drugs interfere with thyroid hormone production, gradually normalizing hormone levels. However, they often require long-term use and can have side effects.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy: This involves ingesting a small dose of radioactive iodine, which destroys part of the thyroid gland. It’s often effective but can lead to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), requiring lifelong hormone replacement.

Thyroidectomy: In severe cases or when other treatments fail, a thyroidectomy (surgical thyroid removal) may be necessary. Post-surgery, patients require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement.

Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management and a balanced diet can support overall well-being.