Düsartria

Dysarthria is a motor speech disorder that affects the clarity of speech. It results from damage or dysfunction of the neural pathways that control the muscles used for speaking. This damage can originate in the brain, brainstem, or peripheral nerves. The underlying causes of dysarthria are varied and can include stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and certain tumors.

The specific characteristics of dysarthria can differ depending on the location and extent of the neurological damage. Common speech difficulties include slurred speech, changes in loudness (too soft or too loud), altered speech rate (too fast or too slow), monotonous or abnormal intonation, and breathiness or hoarseness. In some cases, individuals may have difficulty controlling their jaw, lips, or tongue movements, which directly impacts articulation. Communication can become challenging for individuals with dysarthria, leading to frustration and social isolation.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a speech-language pathologist. This assessment includes listening to the person speak, observing their oral motor functions, and sometimes conducting instrumental analyses of their speech. Treatment for dysarthria focuses on improving speech intelligibility and communication effectiveness. Strategies may include speech exercises to strengthen oral muscles, practicing articulation and breath control, and exploring alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) methods, such as communication boards or electronic speech devices, when verbal speech is severely impaired. The goal of therapy is to maximize the individual's ability to communicate their needs and thoughts.