In interview published in this week's People Magazine, singer Missy Elliott revealed that she was diagnosed with Graves' Disease in 2008.
Elliott has been receiving radiation treatment for the disease since her diagnosis to help alleviate its symptoms such as dizzy spells, mood swings, hair loss, and bulging eyes.
According to the Graves' Disease Foundation, the illness affects 2-3 percent of the population, impacting the thyroid and autoimmune system.
She told People,
"I was [driving and] trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping … I couldn't keep the brake down and almost crashed. I couldn't write because my nervous system was so bad — I couldn't even use a pen."
According to People, the radiation and medication caused Elliott to gain weight, a problem she is managing through exercise.
"I'm 30 pounds lighter because I've been exercising,” she told People. “My thyroid is functioning, so I haven't had to take medication in about nine months.”
Elliot continues to work. She and rapper Timbaland are co-producing a comeback album — release date undetermined.
She is also set to appear as a subject in VH1's upcoming "Behind the Music" season, in which Elliott will share her experience as a molested as a child.
"I remember it like it was yesterday," she told People.
A spokesperson for Elliott did not immediately respond to TheWrap's request for comment.
