Venus Williams talks of hardships on living with the Sjorgen’s syndrome, calls it “Friends you don’t need”

Venus Williams gives advice to fans suffering from Sjorjen's syndrome.

Venus Williams talks of hardships on living with the Sjorgen’s syndrome, calls it “Friends you don’t need”

Venus Williams (Credit: Youtube)

Venus Williams has spoken up about her personal fight with Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder that has hampered her professional career and daily life. In a recent YouTube Q&A session with fans, she gave helpful advice on managing the condition while pursuing one’s aspirations.

Williams delves into the complexities of treating Sjögren’s disease symptoms in a caring and relatable tone. She talked about how the condition causes dry eyes and dry mouth, and she warned about the dangers of ignoring the warning symptoms. “If your eyes are so dry, you can’t function. Or your mouth is so dry, I don’t even want to mention the consequences,” Williams said emphatically.

One of the most important things Williams talked was about self-care and knowing one’s boundaries. She recommended people prioritize adequate sleep and be aware of their physical and mental boundaries based on her personal experience. She warned against exceeding those limitations, which might result in tiredness and setbacks.

She went on to characterize the disease as, ‘Friends you don’t need.’ Williams provided a powerful viewpoint on the concept of achievement while living with a chronic disease. “You can still achieve the same things,” she observed, “but you’ll have to do it in a way that you can sustain.” Her statements captured the essence of adaptability and resilience.

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Venus Williams: Managing Sjögren’s Syndrome and living life to the fullest

Venus Williams (Image Credits: Prevention.com)
Venus Williams (Image Credits: Prevention.com)

With her diagnosis dating back to 2011, the 43-year-old athlete has demonstrated incredible strength in negotiating the complications of the ailment. The syndrome manifests as the immune system attacking healthy tissues, causing broad damage, and impacting several organs.

Sjögren’s syndrome, often known as ‘Showgren’s syndrome’ has put a shadow over Williams’ successful career. It caused her to face obstacles that extend beyond the tennis court. The autoimmune disease is chronic in form, lasting a long time, and systemic in scope, affecting several organs throughout the body.

The diagnosis was revealed during the 2011 US Open, a watershed event in Williams’ career. She was poised to face Sabine Lisicki in the second round. However, after learning of her Sjögren’s syndrome diagnosis, Williams was forced to withdraw from the match. It brought light to the unpleasant reality of the autoimmune condition, which is marked by symptoms like weariness, muscle, and joint discomfort.

Despite her ambition to return to the tennis tour after a break, Williams’ subsequent struggles to recover her dominant form have been clear. The former World No. 1 and seven-time Major champion’s rating has dropped significantly, and she now ranks 521st in the singles rankings. Her nearly year-long absence from the game has highlighted the difficulties she has in maintaining her health while following her love.

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