What is Dysarthria?

Dysarthria is a disorder characterized by difficulty in speaking.  A person suffering from Dysarthria will usually speak in a slurred or slow manner that is difficult to understand. Dysarthria has several causes – it is usually the result of brain injury or other nervous system disorders that causes paralysis in the face, mouth, tongue, or neck. Certain medications such as antipsychotics and specific types of antibiotics can also cause Dysarthria.

Diagnosing Dysarthria can be challenging as the disorder is often confused with things like Dysphasia and even social anxiety disorder. Doctors usually diagnose Dysarthria by having the patient read text out loud or asking them to repeat specific words and phrases. For the most part, Dysarthria in both adults and children is treatable. If the condition is caused by facial paralysis, treatment of the underlying condition usually solves the problem. Dysarthria as a result of brain injury or developmental delays in children usually requires long-term treatment with a speed therapist to correct Dysarthria.

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dysarthria/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dysarthria/symptoms-causes/syc-20371994
http://www.modafinate.net/diseases-conditions/dysarthria/symptoms-causes/syc-20371994/