“DWTS” Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Suffers Mid-Flight Medical Emergency
on Apr 17, 2026
DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Anaba Opens Up About Scary Medical Emergency
Dancing With The Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba is recalling a scary medical experience that happened mid-flight this week.
On Thursday (April 16), the 58-year-old posted a video on Instagram documenting the incident, including footage of her being transported by ambulance and receiving care at a hospital after seriously ill on a flight from Los Angeles to New York.
“Yesterday was quite a day,” Inaba wrote. “I was on my way to NY for something I am very passionate about. But had a small ‘medical emergency’ on the plane. I very suddenly felt quite ill. And while it seemed like food poisoning, I also suddenly broke out into a cold sweat, got dizzy and my arms went numb.”
She explains that she usually manages her autoimmune-related health issues independently and travels prepared, but this incident was particularly frightening.
“And while I was locked in the restroom, we were also experiencing turbulence and the flight attendants had been asked to sit in their seats as well. I didn’t want to have anyone else put themselves at risk… but when my arms went numb, it was time to ask for help,” Inaba continued.
Inaba Openly Speaks About Her Autoimmune Disorders
The DWTS judge has spoken publicly about dealing with several immune and autoimmune disorders, including lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and fibromyalgia. all of which can cause widespread inflammation, pain, fatigue, and other systemic symptoms.
Inaba thanked the flight attendants and medical professionals aboard the aircraft for their assistance. She was met by paramedics at the gate and transported to the emergency room.
She later recalled a frightening moment in the ambulance when her blood pressure dropped, though she was eventually stabilized. After receiving IV fluids and improving, Inaba was discharged from the hospital.
“I’m always thankful for the moments that scare or challenge me especially with my health,” she wrote in the comments on the post. “They remind me that while I often face my health challenges alone, I am not alone. None of us are. The helpers are everywhere. 🤍”
