Best Dysarthria Doctors in Kolkata

Dysarthria is a speech disorder caused by weakened or impaired muscles used for speech. This weakening of muscles may be caused by conditions such as stroke, brain injury, tumours, certain neurological disorders, or conditions affecting the facial nerves. It can affect a person’s ability to articulate words, control the volume of their speech, or even alter their voice quality and pitch. The impact of dysarthria on an individual can range from being a mere inconvenience to a significant hindrance in their daily communication.

Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata offers an inclusive roster of some of the best doctors for dysarthria and speech pathology doctors. With its team of specialists, Apollo Hospitals strives to offer comprehensive care and effective solutions for those seeking assistance with this condition.

Types/Stages of Dysarthria

Dysarthria can present itself in various forms, each with its unique set of characteristics:

• Flaccid Dysarthria: Results from damage to the lower motor neurons leading to weak facial muscles.

• Spastic Dysarthria: Occurs because of damage to upper motor neurons causing muscle stiffness.

• Ataxic Dysarthria: Caused by damage to the cerebellum resulting in poor coordination.

• Hypokinetic Dysarthria: Usually associated with Parkinson's disease leading to slow movements.

• Hyperkinetic Dysarthria: Characterised by unwanted, involuntary movements.

Symptoms of Dysarthria

Individuals with dysarthria often exhibit a range of symptoms including:

• Slurred or slow speech

• Difficulty articulating words

• Problems with voice pitch and volume

• Rapid, mumbling speech

• Nasal or stuffy-sounding speech

Tests to Diagnose Dysarthria

At Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata, doctors for dysarthria employ several tests to diagnose Dysarthria:

• Speech Assessment: Understanding the pattern and quality of speech.

• Physical Exam: Checking the strength and movement of the muscles involved in speech.

• Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to check for underlying conditions.

• Neurological Assessment: Evaluating the patient’s nervous system for potential issues.

• Laryngoscopy: Examining the vocal cords and voice box.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dysarthria at Apollo Hospitals in Kolkata

At Apollo Hospitals, Kolkata, a number of specialists for dysarthria and treatment options are available for patients diagnosed with dysarthria:

• Speech Therapy: Aiming to improve speech clarity and communication skills.

• Medication: Drugs to alleviate underlying conditions causing dysarthria.

• Assistive Devices: Using tools like amplifiers if speaking loudly is challenging.

• Surgery: In certain cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat the root cause of dysarthria.

• Non-invasive Brain Stimulation: An emerging therapy for treating dysarthria-associated with neurological conditions.