Health Talk: Correcting speech disorders associated with Parkinson's

By MARY MILLER

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurological degenerative disorder. It is caused by a gradual loss of certain brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps muscles work properly. Without this chemical, problems with muscle movement occur.

Medications and surgical intervention can control and improve some of the symptoms experienced with walking, but there is not an effective solution to the speech or swallowing disorders that occur.

Since Parkinson's disease affects the nervous system and speech is driven by neurological functions, nearly every person diagnosed with Parkinson's disease will experience problems with their speech.

Speech problems from Parkinson's disease usually begin as a soft voice, mumbled or monotone speech and/or hoarseness. These problems start early and frequently affect quality of life. People are forced to withdraw from the workforce, limit their social activities and are usually asked to repeat themselves when communicating. The only way to improve speech that is altered from Parkinson's disease is with speech therapy.

The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment in an intense speech therapy program that was developed after more than 15 years of research. Patients attend therapy four times a week for four weeks and can only be administered by an LSVT certified speech therapist. Patients go througha series of exercises with the sole focus of producing a louder voice. After they are able to produce a louder voice they advance to practicing common phrases and sentences and onto conversations.

Patients are also required to practice daily, using the tailored home program provided by their therapist. Upon completion of therapy, patients will display improved voice intensity, improved intelligibility and increased facial expression. Some patients even report an improved swallowing function. The results of the treatment have been known to last for up to two years.

For more information go to www.parkinsonresearchfoundation.org