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Creating awareness for Olivopontocerebellar atrophy and other ataxias!
Symptom - Slurred Speech (Dysarthria)
With dysarthria speech may be garbled, mumbled, and slow. It is caused by disturbances in the strength or coordination of the muscles of the speech mechanism.
Therapy for dysarthria focuses on maximizing the function of all systems. Compensatory strategies are often used. Individuals with dysarthria may be advised to take frequent pauses for breath, to over-articulate, or to pause before important words to make them stand out. If there is muscle weakness, they may benefit from performing oro-facial exercises. This helps to strengthen the muscles of the face and mouth that are used for speech.
Most dysarthric speakers need more time to get their message across. It helps to allow them extra time and to listen face to face. When you haven't understood what they've said, it's better to say so than to pretend you have understood. It helps to repeat the part that you did understand as a question, so they only have to repeat the part you didn't get.
Return to Symptoms page.
Please note: We are not Doctors. This site was not written or approved by any Doctor, neurologist, or licensed health care professional. The information contained in these pages is pulled from internet websites and personal experience. Please consult with a registered health care professional to confirm the accuracy of what you read on these pages.
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