Dysarthria is a speech disorder that can occur in multiple sclerosis. It is caused by weakness or lack of coordination in the muscles you use in speaking.
Speaking involves complicated interaction between several parts of the body, such as the lungs, diaphragm, vocal cords, lips, tongue and nasal cavity. If MS has caused damage to the areas of the central nervous system that control any of these elements, it can have an effect on your speech. Similarly, fatigue or weakness can affect any part of the process. This can lead to problems such as slurred speech or difficulty in controlling volume, articulation or intonation.
If you experience dysarthria, a speech and language therapist can help you manage your symptoms. They may work with you to help you speak more clearly so that you can be more easily understood.
