Venus Williams had to pull out of the US Open after being diagnosed with Sjögren’s (pronounced SHOW-gren’s) syndrome, a medical condition where your immune system attacks healthy tissues.
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| Tennis Ace, Venus Williams. PHOTO/Wikipedia |
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Areas of the body affected include glands that produce tears and saliva resulting in dry eyes, a dry mouth and swelling of the glands around the face and neck. The condition can also cause joint pain.
Talking about her withdrawal from the US Open tournament, Ms Williams said:
“I’m really disappointed to have to withdraw from this year’s US Open. I have been recently diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease which is an ongoing medical condition that affects my energy level and causes fatigue and joint pain"
"I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon.”
“Sjögren’s syndrome is a bit of a mystery. We don’t know what causes the condition and there is no cure,” said Dr Jane
Glatz, General Manager Training, Information, Programs at Arthritis Victoria.
“Around half the people living with Sjögren’s syndrome also have some form of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and other health complications, such as an increased risk of infections in and around the eyes due to the reduction of tear production. The condition also has implications for dental health due to lower levels of saliva production.
“People with Sjögren’s syndrome can live a normal life and remain physically active. Depending on Venus Williams maintaining
her general health and fitness, she could continue playing tennis into the future,” said Dr Glatz.
You Can Beat Sjögren’s Syndrome
“A blood test is available to help diagnose the condition. Once you know you have it, you can work on winning against Sjögren’s syndrome,” said Dr Glatz.
“This is a lifelong disease, so it is important to have a good relationship with your general practitioner, rheumatologist and possibly your dentist and opthamologist who are all part of your team to help you beat Sjögren’s.
“Most of the treatment for Sjögren’s syndrome is focused on relieving the symptoms of dry eyes and mouth, as well as treating long term complications including infection and dental disease.
Treatments can include using artificial tears and lubricating ointments to manage dry eyes; drinking water or using mouth rinses and lozenges to beat mouth dryness; using moisturisers for the skin; or medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
“When you face the challenge of living with a chronic condition like Sjögren’s syndrome, you need to learn as much as you can about the disease. Arthritis Victoria can provide detailed fact sheets and resources from our library to help you learn about Sjögren’s syndrome and living with arthritis.
“To go three or four sets with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition you have to get in the game by staying physically active and eating a healthy diet. Participating in an exercise program tailored to the needs of people with MSK conditions such as Arthritis Victoria’s WAVES warm water exercise classes or our tai chi program can help improve mobility, balance and joint strength – helping you to manage your pain and stay active,” said Dr Glatz.
Find out more about Sjögren’s syndrome, the Arthritis Victoria library and our health management and exercise programs by visiting www.arthritisvic.org.au.