Medically reviewed by Shilpa Amin, M.D., CAQ, FAAFP - Written by S. Srakocic - Updated on November 7, 2025
Parkinson’s disease can lead to dysarthria (speech difficulties) and dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). Speech and swallowing therapies, as well as other medical treatments like Botox injections, may help.
It’s common for people with Parkinson’s disease to experience reduced speaking volumes and trouble expressing their thoughts. As the disease progresses, people with the condition may also have difficulty swallowing and getting enough nutrition to maintain a weight that’s healthy for them.
Speech therapy is one of the best approaches for managing these difficulties. It can help people with Parkinson’s disease manage both communication and swallowing issues.
What are the common speech and swallowing characteristics of Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson’s disease can cause voice, speech, communication, and swallowing difficulties. These difficulties can vary among individuals with the condition.
Voice and speech
Common voice and speech difficulties associated with Parkinson’s disease can include:
- reduced speaking volume
- hoarse or strained voice
- breathy-sounding voice
- monotone-sounding voice
- shaky voice or tremor in the voice
- more energy needed to form words
- difficulty with letter and word pronunciation
- slurring of certain letter combinations or sounds
- changes to how fast you speak
- changes to the pitch of your voice
- difficulty finding the right words to express your thoughts
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