Speech Impairments

• For persons with MS, speech and voice impairments occur when the muscles in the larynx, pharynx, trachea and face become weak, uncoordinated or lose mobility. This could cause dystharia, which makes a person talk more slowly, slur her words or have trouble with pronunciation. It could also cause dysphonia, which reduces voice strength, and a person may only be able to speak in short bursts. Finally, MS may lead to dyspropody, which leads to a person having inconsistent speech, such as constant changes in pitch, volume and speed.
  
  

Cognitive Impairments

• Persons with MS may also suffer from "cognitive-communication disorders." These persons frequently cannot remember vocabulary or have trouble associating names to pictures and objects. It is hard for them to sustain long conversations because they cannot remember what has just been said or the main point of the discussion. They might find it difficult to understand complicated speech or to talk in full sentences.
  
  

Awareness

• Awareness is the first key. Being aware of communication difficulties will help you to employ techniques that will help with your ability to speak or express thoughts. If you are noticing any signs of reduced speech abilities, go see your family doctor who may direct you to see a speech pathologist, occupational therapist or other professional. Be honest with whomever you are talking to about your speech impairment. Being upfront will help you relax and speak more successfully.
  
  

Adaptations

• Think about your posture. By maintaining straight posture, your muscles involved with speech will work more effectively. Try to get a good night's sleep since communicating will be easier when you are well rested. In the same breath, avoid talking when you are too tired. Also, practice some relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, since anxiety can impair speech. Turn down the radio, television or any other loud sounds when talking with someone so that you can properly hear and be heard. Keep a notebook with you to write things down just in case you do not have the strength to talk. Most of all, do not avoid talking situations. It is important to keep on using the muscle function you still have, so surround yourself and do activities with people you care for.
  
  

Assistive Devices

• You can use a number of devices to help you communicate. Communication boards consist of a panel with pictures and letters that you can point to in order to get across what you would like to say. Technical apparatuses include a voice amplifier with a headset microphone or a speech-generating device with a keyboard or touch screen.