Dysarthria (slurred speech)

About Dysarthria (slurred speech)

Dysarthria is slurred speech caused by weakness of the muscles of the face, mouth and/or throat. This is usually a serious symptom requiring immediate medical attention. The following conditions can cause this disorder: stroke, head injury, alcohol intoxication, drug overdose, low blood sugar, Parkinson's disease, mini stroke (transient ischemic attack/TIA), brain tumor, cerebral palsy, or a brain infection

Symptoms

Slurred speech, drooping face, swallowing problems.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical will be performed. Blood and imaging tests will be done to determine the cause.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Drug screen, MRI.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment depends on the disorder causing the dysarthria. This is considered a very serious symptom and for many causes even a delay of minutes in the treatment can cause permanent damage.

Medical specialties

Neurology · Pediatric Neurology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Dysarthria (slurred speech).