Full Breakdown
Carrie Ann Inaba Opens Up About Living with Sjögren’s Disease
8/20/2026, 10:12:11 PM
Core Event
Longtime “Dancing with the Stars” judge Carrie Ann Inaba, 58, described Sjögren’s disease as “debilitating” and explained how it forced her to miss the first live competition night in two decades. She spoke about the illness at Televerse 26 and in follow-up media interviews.
Background & Context
Inaba’s symptoms began with dry eyes and progressed to pain, fatigue, and organ involvement. After a decade of unexplained health issues, doctors diagnosed her in 2013. She said it took another 10–15 years to accept that the disease would be lifelong.
Timeline
- Early symptoms – Dry eyes, chronic pain, and other systemic effects began years before diagnosis.
- 2013 – Formal diagnosis after ten years of medical investigation.
- Recent season (2020s) – Flare-up during week 1 of the competition led to her first missed live show since the series began in 2005.
- April (year unspecified) – “Medical emergency” on a flight to New York; dizziness, cold sweats, and numb arms required assistance from crew, an onboard doctor, and paramedics.
Data & Statistics
The Mayo Clinic notes that Sjögren’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the glands producing moisture for the eyes and mouth, causing dryness, chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, dry skin, rashes, brain fog, and headaches. Internal organs may also be affected.
Official Statements & Responses
Inaba said sharing her experience is meant to counter “hyper-realistic” portrayals of celebrity life and give visibility to an “invisible disease.” She now plans her energy use carefully and travels with a “health tool kit” for emergencies.
She also commented on the recent reclassification from “Sjogren syndrome” to “Sjogren’s disease,” saying the change has prompted greater seriousness from doctors, insurers, and employers. Her partnership with Novartis for the “Sjogren’s for Sjögren’s” campaign turns her personal challenge into advocacy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And most of the time, when I'm not on camera, I'm in sweatpants.” — Carrie Ann Inaba
- “Usually, I can push through, but last season, yeah, week one, I was going through a flare up, and I was not able to attend the very first night of competition for the first time in 20 years,” — Carrie Ann
Why It Matters
Inaba’s disclosure highlights hidden struggles faced by individuals with chronic autoimmune conditions, especially in high-visibility professions. By speaking openly, she aims to reduce stigma, encourage early diagnosis, and influence workplace accommodations.
What’s Next
Inaba will continue her advocacy through the Novartis partnership and future public appearances, using her platform to raise awareness of Sjögren’s disease and support others navigating chronic illness.
