Dysarthria – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
A team of experts, often led by a speech-language pathologist, diagnoses speech disorders such as dysarthria, aphasia, or apraxia through several steps.
The speech-language pathologist assesses how a person speaks and how well they control the muscles used in talking. They may ask the person to read, repeat words, and move parts of the mouth, face, and throat.
These activities help identify different types of dysarthria, such as spastic, flaccid, ataxic, hypokinetic, hyperkinetic, or mixed dysarthria.
Common Conditions Checked During Diagnosis:
| Condition | Possible Symptoms | Related Disorders |
|---|---|---|
| Dysarthria | Slurred speech, impaired articulation | Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), stroke, brain injury |
| Aphasia | Language processing difficulties | Progressive aphasia, brain injuries |
| Apraxia of speech | Trouble planning speech movements | Neurological abnormalities, apraxia |
| Parkinson’s disease | Slow or weak speech, involuntary movement | Parkinsonism |
| Multiple sclerosis | Weakness, muscle control issues | Communication disorders |
| Cerebral palsy | Speech muscle problems | Motor speech disorders |
Healthcare providers often order several tests to get a full picture and confirm the cause. Imaging tests, like MRI or CT scans, show detailed images of the brain, head, and neck.
These images help spot injuries, tumors, or other problems that could affect speech. Brain and nerve studies, such as EEG (electroencephalogram) and EMG (electromyogram), check the electrical activity in the brain and nerves to find any disruptions.
Doctors sometimes order blood and urine tests to look for infections or diseases that might be linked to the speech problem.
A lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, collects a small fluid sample from the spine. This test can find infections or disorders in the nervous system.
If doctors suspect a tumor or another major problem, they may perform a brain biopsy.
Neuropsychological tests check a person’s thinking skills, memory, and ability to use language, even though dysarthria mainly affects the muscles used for talking, not understanding or organizing speech.
Doctors use careful differential diagnosis when symptoms overlap with other disorders like severe dysarthria, pseudobulbar palsy, dysphagia, and emotional lability.
This process matches each person with the right treatment and support based on their specific diagnosis.
Treatment
Working With a Speech Specialist
People with dysarthria often work with a speech-language pathologist to build skills for better communication. Therapy plans are based on the person’s needs, which might relate to a stroke, muscle control issues, or other causes.
The main goals include improving speech clarity, strengthening mouth muscles, and increasing breath support for stronger voice production.
Therapy sessions might involve practicing specific sounds, using slower speech, or repeating words for better articulation.
Some activities focus on controlling respiration or adjusting prosody for more natural speech. The speech specialist also introduces tools, like gesture use, visual cues, alphabet boards, or specialized software, if talking remains difficult.
Speech-language pathologists track progress in key areas like intelligibility, vocal quality, and naturalness. This treatment plan may include training for family members to support communication at home.
Coping and Everyday Support
Help from Loved Ones
Family and friends can make communication easier for someone with dysarthria. Create a good environment for conversation by removing background noises like TV or music before talking. This helps everyone focus on the speaker’s words.
Face the person and make eye contact during conversations. Show patience by allowing plenty of time for them to speak—don’t rush or finish their sentences. Wait quietly and let them finish, even if there are pauses.
If something is unclear, repeat the parts you understood instead of asking the person to start over.
For example, say, “I heard you say you want to go to the store,” so they only need to add or repeat the unclear parts.
Ask yes or no questions to make it easier for the speaker to respond. Simple questions like “Do you want water?” or “Is this what you meant?” help keep the conversation moving.
Keep communication tools nearby. The table below shows some tools families can use together:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Notepad/pencil | Quick written messages |
| Pictures/photos | Show ideas instead of speaking |
| Digital device | Typing or drawing for more detailed communication |
Encourage involvement in conversations and group activities. Even if their speech is not clear, most people with dysarthria can understand others. Speak in a normal tone without exaggerating words.
Regular and friendly interaction builds confidence. Creating a relaxed and patient environment can make daily communication less stressful for everyone.
Use gestures or pointing, as well as basic words or phrases, to support spoken conversation when needed.
Encourage the use of drawings, photos, or a communication book with favorite words and images to make conversations smoother and more enjoyable for all.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Your Appointment
- Check for pre-visit guidelines. Some appointments may need certain steps before arriving. For example, patients might need to avoid eating or drinking before a test.
- List your symptoms. Write down all changes in speech or other related problems. Include small details or things that seem unrelated.
- Document important events. Note any big changes in life, such as high stress or changes in daily routines.
- Bring a list of medications. Include all medicines, vitamins, or supplements being taken.
- Ask someone to come with you. A family member or friend can help remember information or share details you may forget.
- Prepare questions for your healthcare provider. Writing questions in advance ensures important topics are discussed.
A sample list for preparing:
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Check appointment needs. | Fasting or special instructions |
| Note symptoms. | Any speech or health changes |
| List medications. | Medications, vitamins, supplements |
| Bring support. | Family member or friend |
| Prepare questions. | Most important first |
Helpful Questions for Your Healthcare Provider
Prepare a list of questions in order of importance. This helps make good use of your time and ensures that key issues are addressed. Some examples include:
- What might be causing my speech changes?
- Are there tests needed to find the cause?
- Should I see a specialist, such as a neurologist?
- What treatments do you recommend?
Add additional questions as needed. Bringing your list ensures no important topic is missed.
Information Your Healthcare Provider May Need
During your visit, the healthcare provider may ask questions to better understand the situation. These might include:
- When did your symptoms begin?
- Do you notice symptoms all the time, or do they come and go?
- How much do your symptoms affect your speaking?
- Is anything making your symptoms better or worse?
- Have you experienced any big changes in your life or health recently?
