Serena Williams

[Barbara17]

Enjoying Wimbledon and watching Serena Williams playing. Does anyone agree with me that it is likely she is now sun sensitive? She’s completely covered and said she was wearing tights as support. Well done to her for playing at her level if she is!

[MrsMouseSJ]

Hi Barbara. I don't know if the body covering and compression tights are to do with the sun or whether she might have a blood clotting disorder. She had pulmonary emboli (PE) (blood clots in the lungs) after giving birth to her daughter and I don't know whether testing was done following that which uncovered an underlying illness. I saw a pic of her wearing the tights but also a sleeveless top the other day, so I wondered again whether the compression is related to her previous PE and is there to help prevent recurrence. Perhaps she might in time, if she has a long-term condition, speak about it and help to raise awareness?

[AgedCrone]

It's Venus who reportedly has Sjogrens...Serena has blood clotting problems hence the pressure sleeve & tights.

I sometimes wonder why both of them- who are multi millionaires- put themselves through such discomfort ?

They have both proved themselves over & over so why not sit back &'look after themselves?

Guess I just don't have the competitive gene!

[Hidden]

Well Venus supposedly has Sjögren’s - which also can cause sun sensitivity and PE - so this suggests that autoimmunity runs in the family I guess.

[PMRpro]

The compression gear Serena wears was said during the comeback to be as a result of the multiple pulmonary emobili she had after the baby was born.

[Hidden]

Knowing how gorgeous she is and is a huge celeb, she must care about her skin, especially facial skin. Skin cancer could occur without UV protection. She seems like a highly educated lady and super self-aware, including her condition. However, I am not exactly sure how effective Factor 50 would be for Lupies. We might need 100 (doesn't exist), not joking. It must be so hot to be wearing compression stockings in the middle of summer.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to Hidden]

Hi Hidden ,

Factor 50 sunscreen is what is generally prescribed for people with lupus and is generally suitable when used properly (such as regularly re-applying it). Factor 100+ does exist and I have heard of some people who use it.

[Hidden]

Oh wow. Thank you, Paul.