Dysarthria
Dysarthria results from paralysis, weakness, or lack of coordination of the muscles required for speech. In children, dysarthria can occur from birth or can occur as a result of a disease (e.g. Cerebral Palsy, Bells Palsy, or head injury). In adults, dysarthria can be caused by a stroke, degenerative disease (e.g. Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, or Multiple Sclerosis), infection, brain tumour, or toxins (e.g. drugs or alcohol).
A person with dysarthria may experience a different symptoms depending on the extent and location of the damage to the nervous system, such as:
“Slurred” speech
Speaking softly
Slow or rapid speech
Hoarseness
Drooling
Limited movement of the tongue or lips or jaw
A Speech-Language Pathologist determines the cause of the Dysarthria as well as the type and severity of symptoms and then focuses on improving the specific abilities during therapy.
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