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Sports Desk Speculation is mounting whether the end is approaching for the tennis career of super star Venus Williams who has been diagnosed as suffering Sjögren’s syndrome
Arthritis Research UK spokesperson Dr Simon Bowman said:
“Sjögren’s syndrome is a little-known but potentially severe autoimmune condition affecting up to half a million people in the UK. The disease can cause extreme fatigue and joint pain and naturally there is speculation as to whether this is the end of Venus William’s career in tennis. In Sjögren’s syndrome the body attacks its own tissues, particularly the tear glands and salivary glands, causing dryness of the mouth and eyes, and also extreme fatigue, and can affect other internal organs. At 31 Venus is relatively young to be diagnosed with this condition, typically affecting women over the age of 40. She would need to get the condition under control before she can re-evaluate her career, but there are effective treatments available. It is too early to say whether this will be the end of her career and whether she is likely to compete at such a high level of tennis again, as constantly fighting fatigue will have an impact on any training regimes.
“Arthritis Research UK is currently investing £1m on a UK wide clinical five-year trial on Sjögren’s syndrome. If anyone is worried about the symptoms they should seek medical advice as soon as possible. For further information on the condition, Arthritis Research UK’s patient booklet on Sjögren’s syndrome is available at www.arthritisresearchuk.org”
Venus Williams speaking on ABCs Good Morning America said:
"I think the best thing that could have happened was to feel worse so I could feel better," Williams”
The seven-times grand slam champion said she has had problems with stamina for several years, which she now believes were caused by Sjogren's. It was not until she developed more concrete symptoms in the past few months that she was diagnosed.
The London Daily News wishes Venus a speedy recovery and to return to the top tier in tennis.
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