Speech changes

About 75 percent to 80 percent of people with Parkinson’s disease experience changes in speech and voice that decrease their ability to communicate. This can be very frustrating. Speech and voice changes usually include:

• reduced or fading voice volume
• monotone pitch
• slow or slurred speech
• a hoarse or breathy-sounding voice

These changes are caused by a variety of factors. Key muscles may be rigid, have tremor, do not move very far or do not move fast enough. It may be challenging to take a deep breath and push the breath out enough for good volume. Vocal folds may be weak or stiff, causing them to vibrate and not stretch as well. Slow movement of your tongue and lips and too much saliva also can make your speech less clear.
 
Most people who experience changes in speech and voice can be helped by speech therapy. You can schedule an evaluation with a speech pathologist, who will design an individualized program to help you maximize your ability to communicate.

For more information on Parkinson’s symptoms, call the center at 952-993-5495 or toll-free at 888-993-5495.

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