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What is dysarthria?

From Jose Vega M.D., Ph.D., for About.com

Updated: March 10, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Photo © A.D.A.M.
Definition: Partial loss of the ability to vocalize words as a result of an injury to the part of the brain that is responsible for controlling the larynx or "voice box." The larynx contains the "vocal cords," which allow us to generate the normal sounds of speech. Rarely, dysarthria can also be the result of an injury outside of the brain, that affects the nerves that control the vocal cords, or that affects the vocal cords themselves.
Also Known As: difficulty speaking
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