Symptom 9: Changes in Voice: Speaking Volumes
One less obvious but significant symptom of ALS is changes in your voice or speech patterns, a condition medically referred to as dysarthria. You may find your voice has become softer, hoarser, or that you’re slurring your words.
Dysarthria in ALS arises from the weakening of the muscles involved in speech production. The earliest signs could be subtle. Perhaps you’re struggling to pronounce certain sounds, or people are asking you to repeat yourself more frequently than before.
As ALS progresses, speech may become more laborious. You may have to take more frequent breaths while speaking, or perhaps you find you’re avoiding long conversations because of the strain. It’s important to pay attention to these changes, particularly if they’re persistent and progressive.
The impact of speech changes on communication can be challenging. Conversations become harder work and the fear of not being understood can lead to frustration and social withdrawal. Early recognition of this symptom can help address these issues before they significantly impact your quality of life.
Speech therapy can be incredibly beneficial in managing dysarthria. Techniques to maintain voice strength and strategies to enhance communication can be employed. Recognizing the changes in your voice as a potential early sign of ALS can guide you to the right help, optimizing communication and social interaction. (9)
