Venus Williams Health Update: What Autoimmune Disease Does She Have?

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As a long-time admirer of Venus Williams, it’s truly inspiring to witness her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her journey with Sjögren syndrome, an autoimmune disease that has affected her energy levels and overall wellbeing, is a testament to her strength and unwavering spirit.

The current news on Venus Williams’ health, concerning her battle against a severe autoimmune condition, brings positive vibes. Although she was identified with this illness in 2011, it remains relatively unknown to many without proper investigation. Here is an overview of the disease Venus Williams has been diagnosed with, its various symptoms like exhaustion, and how the renowned tennis player is managing these challenges.

What illness or disease does Venus Williams have?

Venus Williams has been diagnosed with a disease called Sjögren syndrome (or Sjogren syndrome), an autoimmune condition that causes fatigue, chronic pain, and extensive dryness throughout the body.

The disease is caused by white blood cells called lymphocytes mistakenly attacking glands that produce moisture and saliva, according to the Sjögren Foundation. This commonly results in the patient being unable to create tears and saliva easily, leading to eye and mouth dryness. Sadly, there is no cure for this disease, though treatments are available to lessen the impact of the symptoms. Nine out of ten patients who have the condition are women, and the average age of patients with the disease are in their late 40s.

As a dedicated admirer, I can’t help but empathize with Venus’s journey. The exhaustion from her illness was a formidable challenge for her, as she shared in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar. For seven long years, she felt she wasn’t quite hitting her peak performance, yet the reason remained elusive to her. It was maddening not knowing why I wasn’t performing at my best, but I persevered. The moment of relief came when she finally received an official diagnosis, though it meant withdrawing from the 2011 U.S. Open in the second round due to the condition.

Diagnosing Sjogren syndrome often takes a while because its symptoms can resemble those found in menopause, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and other health issues. However, the Sjogren Foundation has managed to shorten the diagnostic period significantly – from over 6 years in 2012 to less than 3 years now.

Over time, Venus has managed to make her condition more bearable. After being diagnosed, her sister Serena Williams proposed they both attend a retreat. At the retreat, she opted for a vegetarian and sugar-free diet, which has significantly reduced her symptoms. Her experiences have led her to write a wellness book titled “Strive,” which will be released this coming September.

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2024-09-10 23:40