Guide To The Symptoms Of Dystonia

Speech Issues

Speech issues are especially common with the cranial (oromandibular) and laryngeal forms of dystonia. Patients with cranial dystonia may notice that their mouth opens involuntarily, and they might notice their bottom jaw shifts to one side or the back. The jaw could suddenly clench shut, and involuntary movements of the tongue and lip muscles may be present. These symptoms could make speech difficult, and involuntary tongue or lip movements might make words difficult to pronounce or to speak clearly.

Laryngeal dystonia patients could have a voice that sounds raspy, strangled, or breathy, and they may have to exert additional effort to speak. These individuals often report their speech improves if they are singing or whispering. Patients whose speech issues are caused by oromandibular dystonia could benefit from oral medications, speech and swallowing therapy, and the use of sensory tricks to temporarily block muscle spasms. Individuals with laryngeal dystonia usually respond well to neurotoxin injections, and a surgical procedure known as selective laryngeal adduction denervation and reinnervation may be considered.

Abnormal Gait

Generalized dystonia may produce an abnormal gait. In most cases, patients with this form of dystonia twist or bend their torso while walking. Instead of picking up their legs as they walk, some generalized dystonia patients could walk by dragging one of their legs as they move. Other patients with this condition could display a shuffling gait. In this gait, the affected individual walks with shortened steps and reduced arm swing.

The gait changes that develop as a result of dystonia may cause the patient to feel unsteady, and balance issues could occur. They might be at an increased risk of falling and may need to use mobility aids, including canes or walkers. Physical therapists can teach patients specific exercises that could make walking safer. Patients with dystonia should always report any gait changes to their doctor.