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Dysarthria

Diseases and Conditions Dysarthria
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Dysarthria is a speech sound disorder resulting from neurological injury to the motor component of the motor–speech system. It affects the ability to articulate sounds and pronounce words clearly. Individuals with dysarthria often experience slurred speech and difficulty controlling their vocal muscles.

Types of Dysarthria

  1. Spastic Dysarthria:
    • Caused by damage to upper motor neurons.
    • Features increased muscle tone, stiffness, and slow, strained speech.
  2. Flaccid Dysarthria:
    • Results from damage to lower motor neurons.
    • Presents as weak, breathy speech with imprecise articulation.
  3. Ataxic Dysarthria:
    • Associated with cerebellar dysfunction.
    • Causes irregular speech rhythm, poor coordination, and imprecise articulation.
  4. Hypokinetic Dysarthria:
    • Common in Parkinson’s disease.
    • Characterized by rapid, monotonous speech and reduced vocal volume.
  5. Hyperkinetic Dysarthria:
    • Linked to conditions like Huntington’s disease.
    • Involves involuntary movements affecting speech.
  6. Mixed Dysarthria:
    • Combines features of multiple types due to complex neurological conditions.

Causes of Dysarthria

  • Brain Injury: Trauma, stroke, or tumors affecting speech centers.
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases: ALS, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease.
  • Congenital Factors: Cerebral palsy or genetic disorders.
  • Medications: Certain drugs can cause speech difficulties.

Risk Factors of Dysarthria

  • Age: Dysarthria becomes more common with age.
  • Neurological Conditions: ALS, multiple sclerosis, etc.
  • Medication Use: Prolonged use of specific drugs.

Symptoms of Dysarthria

The common Symptoms of Dysarthria are:
1. Slurred speech.
2. Slow speech.
3. Whispering or speaking too loudly.
4. Rapid speech that is hard to understand.
5. Nasal, raspy, or strained voice.
6. Uneven speech rhythm and volume.
7. Difficulty moving tongue or facial muscles.

Preventions of Dysarthria

While dysarthria isn’t always preventable, consider the following steps:

  • Blood Pressure and Diabetes Control
  • Cholesterol Management
  • Limit Saturated Fat and Salt Intake
  • Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
  • Regular Exercise
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight.

Diagnosis of Dysarthria

  • Physical Examination: Assess muscle strength and coordination.
  • Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to identify brain abnormalities.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measures brain activity.
  • Laboratory Examination: Blood and urine tests.
  • Spinal Tap (Lumbar Puncture): Collects cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Brain Biopsy: Analyzes brain tissue.
  • Neuropsychological Examination: Assesses cognitive skills related to speech.

Treatment for Dysarthria

  • Speech and Language Therapy: Helps regain normal speech.
  • Balanced Diet: Include vitamin C-rich foods and zinc.
  • Avoid Salt and Alcohol: Minimize salt intake and avoid alcohol.

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek medical attention if you experience sudden changes in speech.