I have been recently diagnosed with PD. I am a 50+ year old male in a “sales type” profession where I need to present and talk almost constantly.
My current drug treatment consists of 6mg Diazepam in the morning plus Requip 2mg three times per day.
I have been having significant issues with slurred speech. It seems to be worse when I am tired or stressed.
Has anyone had any success with any programs designed to help this problem?
I have looked into the LVST programs – are there any “Home Based – self guided” programs that I should consider?
Does anyone know of any “Speech Related” trials that could be beneficial?
Thanks for any help or advice!

The the LVST programs are about the best there is when it comes to speech therapy for PD. That being said, check with your local hospital. Many have LVST trained therapist in their therapy departments. That way you may be able to attend therapy sessions with out missing much work.

Look into LSVT. They are experts in speech problems and PD.

good luck

There is anecdotal evidence that singing helps improve speech, and groups on both sides of the atlantic using singing for parkinson's, also I believe there is a study, but haven't found the thread, perhaps someone else can post a link.......

ever consider it might be the diazepam? MrsD are you here?

Yes frankly I have thought long and hard that it may be the diazepam....I have discussed with the neuro....wants me to continue to reduce muscle spasms.

I take 6mg about 7:30am.....usually speech problems don't surface till afternoon.

Any thoughts.......

I am trying to learn as much as I can - Thank You

Yes, LSVT helped me a lot.
I recently heard about a group called The Tremble Clefs, a singing group for people with PD for voice therapy. They aren't very widespread yet though. Here is a link: http://www.pdasd.org/site/index.asp?page=86463&DL=7246