Tennis star Venus Williams recently announced she has been diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome. The condition is a chronic autoimmune disorder which white blood cells attack moisture-producing glands in the body. The syndrome typically manifests in dry eyes and dry mouth, but can also cause other problems with major organs and the central nervous system. Patients often experience extreme fatigue and joint pain, and have a higher risk of developing lymphoma.

The condition affects about 4 million Americans, and nine out of 10 patients are women. About half the time, Sjogren’s occurs on its own and the other half in conjunction with another autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or scleroderma. The condition can vary greatly from person to person, and can go into remission or worsen at any time. Sjogren’s is often misdiagnosed and patients average seven years between the onset of symptoms and an accurate diagnosis.

There is no cure for the condition, but symptoms can be treated. Patients often use eye drops or medications that increase production of saliva. Malaria medications have also been shown to help with the condition.

Source: Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation

— Markian Hawryluk, The Bulletin