Sjögren’s Syndrome and the Singing Voice
Major
Music: Vocal Performance
Second Major
English – Literature
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Music
Faculty Advisor
Ingrid Kammin
Location
CNS Atrium
Start Date
4-11-2026 8:30 AM
End Date
4-11-2026 9:45 AM
Abstract
The inflammatory autoimmune disorder, Sjogren’s Syndrome, affects millions of Americans every year with a variety of severity and differing symptoms. This disease particularly affects the mucosal and dermatological systems; in particular, the larynx is affected when an individual is diagnosed with this inflammatory autoimmune disorder. Used for both speaking on a regular basis as well as singing – professionally or in casual settings – the larynx and vocal cords are essential in human connection. With Sjögren’s Syndrome, the ability to properly communicate is much more difficult to maintain.The most common larynx specific symptoms are dysphonia and dyspnea, as well as decreased vibrations in the vocal cords due to dryness in the mucosal waves. These decreased vibrations in the vocal cords can lead to strain and hoarseness when an individual is attempting to use their voice on a daily basis. I am attempting to understand both personal struggles with these symptoms as well as educating others who might not be aware of how this autoimmune disorder affects the voice. In a pedagogical sense, it can be more difficult for individuals who are attempting to accurately and effectively teach how to sing well when they are affected by these symptoms. In analyzing the symptoms and setbacks with being diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome, I would like to look into treatment care and ways to help alleviate these laryngeal symptoms and allow for better understanding on how this autoimmune disorder affects healthy singing.
Sjögren’s Syndrome and the Singing Voice
CNS Atrium
The inflammatory autoimmune disorder, Sjogren’s Syndrome, affects millions of Americans every year with a variety of severity and differing symptoms. This disease particularly affects the mucosal and dermatological systems; in particular, the larynx is affected when an individual is diagnosed with this inflammatory autoimmune disorder. Used for both speaking on a regular basis as well as singing – professionally or in casual settings – the larynx and vocal cords are essential in human connection. With Sjögren’s Syndrome, the ability to properly communicate is much more difficult to maintain.The most common larynx specific symptoms are dysphonia and dyspnea, as well as decreased vibrations in the vocal cords due to dryness in the mucosal waves. These decreased vibrations in the vocal cords can lead to strain and hoarseness when an individual is attempting to use their voice on a daily basis. I am attempting to understand both personal struggles with these symptoms as well as educating others who might not be aware of how this autoimmune disorder affects the voice. In a pedagogical sense, it can be more difficult for individuals who are attempting to accurately and effectively teach how to sing well when they are affected by these symptoms. In analyzing the symptoms and setbacks with being diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome, I would like to look into treatment care and ways to help alleviate these laryngeal symptoms and allow for better understanding on how this autoimmune disorder affects healthy singing.