![]() Swallowing therapy often is the main treatment, so your doctor may refer you to a speech and swallowing therapist. ![]() Parkinson's medication adjustments may ease swallowing problems but usually don't resolve them. ![]() This test shows where the swallowing problems are (the mouth or throat) and whether foods and liquids are going into the airway instead of the stomach. To evaluate swallowing problems, doctors may order a test that takes x-rays while you swallow foods and liquids of different consistencies. Some people may feel like the food is getting "stuck" as it goes down. In Parkinson's, swallowing problems may cause coughing, choking or throat clearing when eating or drinking. These include personal microphones, touchpads and gadgets that prompt you to speak up if your voice volume decreases. (SPEAK OUT! also includes memory-building exercises for those who have cognitive problems.)Ĭommunication devices, which enhance or amplify speech, also may be helpful. Parkinson's-specific programs, including Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD and Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT!, are led by certified speech therapists who teach exercises and techniques to improve the volume and clarity of speech. Parkinson's medication adjustments sometimes help with speech problems, but speech therapy typically is the main treatment. They also can interfere with a job (if you often give presentations, for example) and limit social interactions. Speech problems can make it difficult to communicate with family, friends and physicians. Cognitive problems, for example, may lead to difficulty finding the right words and slower speech. Parkinson's non-motor symptoms, such as memory or thinking (cognitive) problems also can affect speech. These can send incorrect non-verbal cues or impact the ability to show emotion. Parkinson's motor symptoms, such as decreased facial expression, slowness and stooped posture, may add to speech problems. Most people talk slowly, but some speak rapidly, even stuttering or stammering. People with Parkinson's might slur words, mumble or trail off at the end of a sentence. Sometimes speech sounds breathy or hoarse. Many people with PD speak quietly and in one tone they don't convey much emotion. Parkinson's disease (PD) can affect speech in several ways.
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