2. Dysarthria: The Language of FRDA
Following closely on the heels of gait disturbance is the symptom of dysarthria – a speech disorder resulting from the impairment of muscular control. Dysarthria manifests as slurred or slow speech, where the individual’s articulation is compromised. This can be a highly distressing symptom, as communication forms a crucial part of our social interactions.
Dysarthria in FRDA patients is a direct consequence of neurological degeneration. The muscles responsible for speech – including those controlling the movement of the tongue, lips, vocal cords, and diaphragm – are coordinated by a complex network of nerves. These nerves ensure the precise timing and strength of muscle contractions required to produce clear, articulate speech.
As FRDA progresses, the nerves controlling these muscles deteriorate. This results in weakened, slowed, or uncoordinated muscle movements, leading to the speech difficulties characteristic of dysarthria. In essence, dysarthria acts as a vocal testament to the widespread neural damage inflicted by FRDA.
In the next part of the article, we’ll delve deeper into the plethora of symptoms that Friedreich’s Ataxia brings to the fore, each playing a critical role in shaping the life of an individual grappling with this condition. (2)
