Dysarthria: Causes and Symptoms of Slurred Speech

What is Dysarthria?

Dysarthria is a motor speech disorder that affects the muscles involved in speech production. It can result in difficulty forming and pronouncing words, leading to slurred or unclear speech.

Causes of Dysarthria

Dysarthria can be caused by various underlying conditions that affect the brain, nerves, or muscles involved in speech. These conditions may include:

• Neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Brain injuries
• Birth defects
• Muscle weakness or paralysis

Symptoms of Dysarthria

The symptoms of dysarthria can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• Slurred or unclear speech
• Difficulty forming certain sounds
• Slow or halting speech
• Nasal speech
• Hoarseness or breathiness

Dysarthria can significantly impact communication and daily life. Individuals with this condition may experience difficulties in social interactions, employment, and other aspects of daily living.