Symptom 7: Changes in Speech
Speech changes are a relatively common symptom in SPMS, with many people noticing alterations in their speech patterns as the disease progresses. This typically presents as slurred or nasal speech, a change in speech rhythm, or even difficulties in controlling the volume of speech.
The cause of these speech changes is dysarthria, a condition that occurs when the muscles used for speech become weak or uncoordinated due to nerve damage. As MS affects these nerves, it can lead to irregularities in articulation, tone, pitch, rhythm, and volume.
A related symptom is dysphonia, which involves difficulties in producing sound due to muscle weakness in the vocal cords. This can lead to hoarseness, breathy speech, or even loss of voice. Dysphonia can further compound the speech problems associated with SPMS. (7)
