Speech and Language Therapy


  • dysphonia, dysarthria, dysphagia affect most PD patients
  • communication problems can lead to social isolation
  • swallowing problems increase the risk of aspiration
 
Communication
  • problems being understood?
  • communication difficult at work?
  • social isolation due to speech problems?
    • consider Lee Silverman voice treatment, if available
    • refer for SALT assessment
Swallowing
  • difficulty swallowing?
  • choking when eating?
  • first aspiration pneumonia?
  • problems with tablets?
    • modify consistencies
    • schedule meals with best "on" time
    • provide postural/swallow technique strategies
    • refer for SALT assessment
Drooling
  • during daytime?
  • wet pillow at night?
    • sugar-free sweets/gum - to prompt swallowing
    • cueing devices
    • optimise oral hygiene
    • oral ipratropium inhaler
    • anti-cholinergics or tricyclics (cautiously)
    • botulinum toxin
    • refer for SALT assessment