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What is dysarthria?
Dysarthria is the term used to describe difficulty with speech production itself. It is caused by damage to the nerves that are connected to and control the lips, tongue, cheeks, vocal cords, and soft palate.
Dysarthria can be caused by strokes, traumatic brain injuries, diseases (such as multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease or Parkinson’s disease), and brain tumours. The type and severity of the dysarthria will vary from person to person. It can range from not being able to speak at all, to mild difficulties only noticeable by the speaker.
If you have dysarthria (or “you are dysarthric”) you may have difficulty producing clear speech and/or a normal vocal quality. This is due to weakness, incoordination, and/or paralysis of the muscles necessary for speech. Pronouncing words clearly may also be difficult and speech may sound slurred. Your voice may sound harsh or breathy, as if you have a cold or laryngitis. You may also have difficulty controlling the rhythm of speech and may speak too quickly or too slowly.
Tips for communicating with someone with dysarthria
- Hold conversations in a quiet environment and give them adequate time to respond.
- Always look at their lips, face and gestures to get additional visual information.
- Encourage them to speak slowly and exaggerate or over-pronounce each word when speaking.
- Encourage them to take adequate breaths and pause between words.
- Confirm what they are saying by repeating the information back naturally.
There are many different types of dysarthria that affect speech in different ways. For more specific information regarding the different types of dysarthria and the best ways to communicate, please contact your speech and language therapist.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Speech and language therapy service.
About this information
Service:
Speech and language therapy
Reference:
VV/008
Approval date:
20 September 2024
Review date:
1 May 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.