Dysarthria in Children

Dysarthria in children is a condition that impairs the speech pattern due to brain or nerve damage of the speech muscles. The muscles of the mouth, face and the respiratory system become weak. This makes them move slowly or not move at all. Such children do not speak much. In this article you will learn some information related to slurred speech, also known as dysarthria.

Causes of Dysarthria

Dysarthria is a neurogenic speech disorder that causes dysfunctional speech musculature, that is, tongue, lips, soft palate, facial muscles and larynx. There is low muscle tone or even paralysis of the speech muscles that coordinate with the speech functions. Children suffering from dysarthria is characterized by early sucking, chewing and swallowing problems. Many children 'drool' for a long time and continue eating soft foods as they are easy to digest. These children also gag and choke frequently.

The causes of dysarthria in children can also be due to tumors of the nervous system or a head trauma. Altered muscle tone, in coordination of the speech muscles and conditions like cerebral palsy are also some of the causes.

Types of Dysarthria

Based on the site of lesion or area of nervous system damage, there are many types of dysarthria in children.

The first type is Flaccid dysarthria that involves the loss of muscle tone and muscles weakness. Here, the child has a breathy, weak speech which lacks intonation (melody) and has imprecise consonants. Spastic dysarthria is a condition involving excess muscle tension and over sensitive reflexes. The sound of voice is strained or strangles, the reflexes are easily elicited that lead to interference with speech production. Ataxic dysarthria is when there is difficulty in coordination of the rate, range and force of speech movements. Hyperkinetic dysarthria involves loss of inhibitory control, that leads to involuntary and abnormal movements that inhibit the speech. This involuntary movements is in form of tics, athetosis, dystonia and tremors. Hyperkinetic dysarthria limits the amount, range and force of movement of the patient.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of dysarthria are as follows:

• Slurred speech that is not articulated clearly.
• Slowed speech
• Excessive loud or soft speech
• Difficulty in controlling the speech volume
• The voice quality is hoarse, nasal, breathy, etc.
• The child speaks with a lot of effort and lacks breath control
• Difficulty in controlling pitch - monotone, high or low pitch

Treatment for Dysarthria

The treatment involves specific speech therapy exercises. The speech therapy for children helps improve the articulation, voice, pitch quality and volume. The child is observed for the use of strategies to make the speech clear like looking at the person while talking, taking a breath before speaking, reduction in speed rate and speaking in short sentences with regular pause.

The parents and teachers are also guided regarding the various strategies to be employed while speaking to the child. In case the child is suffering from a severe case of dysarthria, the speech pathologist may use alternative means of communication like simple gestures, alphabet boards and computer based equipment.

As a parent, you need to pay attention when the child speaks. If you have difficulty in understanding, let the child know to alter his speech speed or tone. Let him know that you have understood some parts of the message and give more time to the child to respond. You should visit a qualified speech pathologist for guidance and work together to help your child improve his slurred speech.

Disclaimer: This article is solely for information purpose only. Please consult a doctor for further information and treatment of the child.