In the context of healthcare, what does 'Dysarthria' primarily affect?

Dysarthria primarily affects speech clarity. This condition results from muscle weakness or coordination issues that impact the muscles involved in speech production, including the lips, tongue, vocal cords, and diaphragm. As a result, individuals with dysarthria may have slurred or slowed speech, difficulty pronouncing words clearly, or reduced voice volume, making it challenging for others to understand what they are saying.

Dysarthria does not directly impact swallowing function, physical mobility, or cognitive function, although these may be affected by different neurological conditions. Understanding dysarthria's focus on speech helps healthcare professionals provide appropriate support and interventions to improve communication for affected individuals.