It is a neuromotor speech disorder caused due to damage to the peripheral or central nervous system. Individuals with dysarthria will have their range of oral movements and speed reduced with overall weakness. Due to the deficits in the execution of movements, they will have their speech output affected.
According to WHO’s ICF framework, dysarthria is one of the primary conditions that contributes to disrupted social participation of the individual causing negative effects psychologically as well.
Aside from the obvious voice change after brain or nerve damage, some of the common signs you will notice in individuals with dysarthria are:
Slurring of speech
Speaking too slowly
Speaking like a robot
Hoarse voice
Voice like having a stuffy nose
Speaking in a soft voice
Speaking very loudly
Poor clarity of overall speech
Depending on the area of damage, the type of dysarthria varies. They are:
Spastic dysarthria – Common cause : stroke, bulbar palsy, myasthenia gravis
Flaccid dysarthria – Common cause : Stroke, Pseudobulbar palsy, encephalitis
Ataxic dysarthria – Common cause : Stroke, cerebellar disorders
Hypokinetic dysarthria – Common cause : Parkinson’s disease
Hyperkinetic dysarthria – Common cause : Dyskinesia, myoclonus, Chorea
Unilateral Upper Motor Neuron dysarthria – Common cause : Lacunar stroke
Mixed dysarthria – Common cause: Depends on the types of dysarthria co occurring
After the diagnosis is made, depending on the type and severity of the condition, the speech pathologist will formulate a therapy plan to facilitate smooth speech with evidence-based techniques.
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