What Disease Does Venus Williams Have?

Venus Williams the former world number one tennis player has been open about her struggle with a chronic autoimmune disease called Sjögren’s syndrome.

What is Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects around 4 million people in the United States alone. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own glands that produce fluids such as tears saliva resulting in dry eyes mouth. In some cases it can also affect other parts of the body including the joints lungs kidneys.

Venus Williams’ Diagnosis

In 2011 Venus Williams announced that she had been diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome which forced her to withdraw from the US Open that year. She later revealed that she had been experiencing fatigue joint pain dry eyes for several years before receiving her diagnosis.

Treatment Management

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome but there are various treatments available to manage the symptoms. For Venus treatment involved medication such as hydroxychloroquine prednisone which helped reduce inflammation in her joints control her symptoms.

In addition to medication Venus also adopted a healthier lifestyle which included changes in her diet exercise routine. She also incorporated rest relaxation into her routine to manage her fatigue.

Venus’ Advocacy for Sjögren’s Syndrome Awareness

Since her diagnosis Venus Williams has become an advocate for Sjögren’s syndrome awareness. She has used her platform as a successful athlete to raise awareness about the disease encourage people to get tested if they experience symptoms.

In 2016 Venus even established the Venus Williams Fund for Sjögren’s Syndrome which provides support resources for patients their families.

Conclusion

Venus Williams’ courage in sharing her journey with Sjögren’s syndrome has helped shed light on the disease its impact on people’s lives. Her advocacy has also helped create a greater understanding of the disease encouraging more people to get tested seek treatment.