Sound-specific lingual dystonia

Sound-specific lingual dystonia is a neurological disorder that affects the tongue and speech muscles, causing involuntary movements and abnormal postures while speaking. It is a type of focal dystonia that specifically affects speech, and can cause difficulties in speaking, swallowing, and sometimes even breathing.

Individuals with sound-specific lingual dystonia may experience involuntary contractions or spasms of the tongue muscles when they attempt to speak certain sounds or words. This can lead to slurred speech, stuttering, or other speech disturbances. The specific sounds or words that trigger the dystonic movements can vary from person to person, but are typically consistent within each individual.

The cause of sound-specific lingual dystonia is not entirely understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment options may include speech therapy, botulinum toxin injections, or in some cases, surgery ¹⁾.