What to Expect: Speech Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis

At Speak and Swallow Speech Therapy, we support many people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). They are often referred to us because almost half of all people with MS experience swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) and communication challenges. 

With our quality of life approach front and centre, our team are known for providing individualised, high quality speech therapy and detailed Mealtime Management plans to support individuals with MS. Keep on reading to find out what to expect when seeing a Speech Pathologist after being diagnosed with MS, and the kind of speech therapy available for multiple sclerosis.  

What to Expect: Speech Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis 

Multiple Sclerosis is an acquired neurological condition that can result in temporary and prolonged changes in swallowing and speech. In people with MS, their immune system mistakenly attacks and damages fatty material – called myelin – around the nerves. This results in a range of symptoms like loss of motor function (e.g. walking and hand and arm function), loss of sensation, pain, vision changes and even changes to thinking and memory. Because there are different types of MS, and it impacts everyone’s neurology differently, some people may experience more severe symptoms than others.  

There are three main types of MS: relapsing remitting MS (RRMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and primary progressive MS (PPMS). The classification of disease depends on its activity and progression. 

What one person with MS is recommended during speech therapy may differ from another, and the outcomes may differ too – especially if you are going through a period where your MS symptoms are exacerbated. 

Having a Speech Pathologist involved in your care from the point of diagnosis can help you address any changes in your voice and your swallowing as they arise to ensure not only your safety, but also your enjoyment of the different aspects of daily life – chatting with friends and family, and enjoying your favourite meals and drinks.   

Your First Speech Pathology Appointment 

During your first appointment, your Speech Pathologist will complete a thorough assessment to understand your current condition and the specific MS symptoms you’re experiencing. For people with Multiple Sclerosis, speech pathology assessment typically involves a detailed evaluation of your voice, speech, and swallowing. From there, you’ll collaboratively discuss your goals for your speech therapy, and decide on the best pathway forward. 

Long-Term Speech Therapy for MS 

You will likely see a Speech Pathologist intermittently to support you with the symptoms associated with MS. This may involve a combination of clinic or home-based speech therapy appointments. If swallowing difficulties arise or are exacerbated during a flare up of symptoms, your Speech Pathologist may recommend compensatory strategies to help you swallow safely as well as a personalised Mealtime Management Plan that will be updated regularly so that those supporting you know how to organise safe and enjoyable mealtimes. 

Types of swallowing difficulties you may notice with MS: 

  • Taking longer to eat meals than usual and getting fatigued 
  • Difficulty chewing food, even foods you used to enjoy easily 
  • Trouble holding and controlling liquids in your mouth 
  • The sensation of food and drinks getting ‘stuck’ in your throat 
  • Coughing or choking when eating or drinking  
  • Regurgitation of foods and drinks 

Types of speech difficulties you may notice with MS: 

  • Changes in voice quality – a rougher, or strained sounding voice 
  • Changes in your pitch – sounding monotone or nasal at times 
  • People having difficulty understanding what you’re saying  
  • A slower rate of speech than normal 
  • Variable loudness of your voice – difficulty projecting louder to be heard 
  • A slight or noticeable tremor in your voice when talking  

When to Seek Speech Therapy for MS 

There are over 33,000 people living with MS in Australia as of 2021. Unfortunately, due to the complexity of the disease and intermittent symptoms, getting a diagnosis can be a lengthy process. Once a diagnosis of MS is made, it’s worth involving a Speech Pathologist to determine how your symptoms are currently impacting your communication and swallowing, and to build a relationship with a trusted provider who will be able to support you as your condition changes over time.  

At Speak and Swallow we’re proud to be support a number of individuals with MS to maintain their quality of life and advocate for the support they need and deserve.