## Celine Dion Opens Up About Agonizing Vocal Effects of Stiff Person Syndrome
Grammy Award-winning singer Celine Dion has provided a detailed account of how Stiff Person Syndrome has severely impacted her voice.
### Excruciating Vocal Struggles
In an exclusive interview with NBC News’ Hoda Kotb, Dion candidly described the debilitating effects of the condition on her vocal cords. “It’s as if someone is strangling you,” she explained. “It’s like someone is pushing your larynx and pharynx, causing it to go into spasms.”
The vocal spasms can also extend to other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, spine, and ribs. Dion revealed that the pain is so intense that she can even break her ribs during severe episodes.
### Impact on Body Function
Stiff Person Syndrome not only affects Dion’s voice but also her overall physical abilities. The condition causes muscles to stiffen and become rigid, resulting in impaired movement. “If I point my feet, they will stay in that position,” she said. “It feels like I can’t unlock them.”
### Diagnosis and Treatment
Dion was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in 2022. The rare autoimmune disorder affects approximately one in a million people. Treatment options are limited, and there is no known cure.
### Determination to Perform
Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Dion remains determined to continue performing. She is currently working on a new album and plans to resume her postponed Courage Tour in 2026.
Additional Insights
* Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterized by progressive muscle stiffness and spasms.
* The precise cause of the condition is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
* Symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome can include muscle stiffness, spasms, difficulty walking, and anxiety.
* Treatment options focus on managing the symptoms and improving quality of life.
* Despite the challenges, many individuals with Stiff Person Syndrome find ways to adapt and live full lives.