Glossary of Communication Disorder Terms - D

D

Decibel

unit that measures the intensity or loudness of sound.

Dizziness

physical unsteadiness, imbalance, and lightheadedness associated with balance disorders.

Dysarthria

group of speech disorders caused by disturbances in the strength or coordination of the muscles of the speech mechanism as a result of damage to the brain or nerves.

Dysequilibrium

any disturbance of balance.

Dysfluency

disruption in the smooth flow or expression of speech.

Dysgeusia

distortion or absence of the sense of taste.

Dyslexia

learning disability characterized by reading difficulties. Some individuals may also have difficulty writing, spelling, or working with numbers.

Dysosmia

distortion or absence of the sense of smell.

Dysphagia

difficulty swallowing.

Dysphonia

any impairment of the voice or speaking ability.

Dyspraxia of speech

in individuals with normal muscle tone and speech muscle coordination, partial loss of the ability to consistently pronounce words.

Dystonia

abnormal muscle tone of one or more muscles.