Dysarthria is a group of speech disorders caused by the weak or impaired movement of the muscles one uses for speech. It can arise due to conditions like stroke, brain injury, tumours, or neurological diseases like Parkinson's. Individuals with dysarthria often face difficulties in articulating words clearly, maintaining their tone or volume, and may even have slurred speech. The susceptibility to this condition can be influenced by factors such as age, pre-existing neurological conditions, and trauma to the brain.

Dysarthria cases are not uncommon in Hyderabad. Dysarthria doctors at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad have the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and treat such conditions. Apollo Hospitals boasts cutting-edge facilities and advanced technologies to deliver exceptional care.

Types of Dysarthria

Best dysarthria doctors have listed various types of dysarthria based on the underlying cause and the specific muscles affected:

• Flaccid Dysarthria: Caused by damage to the motor neurons leading to weakness in muscles responsible for speech.

• Spastic Dysarthria: Resulting from damage to nerve pathways controlling muscle function leading to stiff and tight speech muscles.

• Ataxic Dysarthria: Caused by damage to the cerebellum, causing problems with timing and coordination while speaking.

• Hypokinetic Dysarthria: Associated with Parkinson's disease, it leads to slow and reduced movement of speech muscles.

• Hyperkinetic Dysarthria: Caused by involuntary movements impacting speech muscles.

Symptoms of Dysarthria

According to dysarthria specialists, the symptoms associated with dysarthria include:

• Slow or rapid speech that is difficult to understand

• A soft or very loud voice

• Nasal, raspy or strained voice

• Uneven speech rhythm with pauses

• Monotone speech

• Difficulty moving your tongue or facial muscles

Tests to Diagnose Dysarthria

Diagnosis of dysarthria involves a series of assessments by the best dysarthria specialists, including:

• Speech Assessment: Evaluating the clarity, pace, and volume of speech.

• Physical Examination: Checking muscle strength and mobility in lips, tongue and face.

• Imaging Tests: MRIs and CT scans to detect any structural abnormalities in the brain.

• Neurological Examination: Assessing motor functions and nerve health.

• Laryngoscopy: To check for vocal cord abnormalities.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dysarthria at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad:

Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad has the best specialists for dysarthria and offers a comprehensive range of treatment options:

• Speech Therapy: Helps improve pronunciation, breath control and speech rhythm.

• Medication: Drugs may be given to manage underlying neurological conditions causing dysarthria.

• Assistive Devices: Devices like amplifiers or communication aids can support better speech.

• Support Groups: Patients can join groups for counselling and coping strategies.