Is a hoarse voice and slurred speech part of Parkinson's?
Yes, these speech changes are common symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Between 75 to 90 percent of people with Parkinson's will develop speech problems at some point.
The hoarseness and slurring you're experiencing are often caused by dysarthria, which happens when Show Full Answer
Is a hoarse voice and slurred speech part of Parkinson's?
Yes, these speech changes are common symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Between 75 to 90 percent of people with Parkinson's will develop speech problems at some point.
The hoarseness and slurring you're experiencing are often caused by dysarthria, which happens when the muscles used for talking become weak or hard to control. Parkinson's affects the nervous system and the nerves and muscles needed for clear speech.
Common speech problems in Parkinson's include:
- Speaking quietly or with a breathy voice
- Having a monotone voice
- Slurring words
- Stuttering, stammering, or mumbling
These changes can make everyday conversations difficult and may worsen as Parkinson's progresses. Many people with Parkinson's don't realize they're speaking quietly because the disease can affect how you hear your own voice. The good news is that speech therapy can really help. Working with a speech-language pathologist is the primary treatment for these issues. They can recommend vocal exercises and breathing techniques to strengthen your voice.
Many people have found success with the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment LOUD program (LSVT LOUD), which helps you speak louder and more clearly. A MyParkinsonsTeam member shared, "I completed LSVT LOUD six months ago. So far, I have maintained my voice control. I highly recommend it."
Starting speech treatment early may give you better results and help you maintain a stronger voice as time goes on. Talk to your doctor or neurologist about getting a referral to a speech therapist who can work with you on these challenges.
April 2
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