# A Signal for Voice and Speech Abnormalities in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

## TL;DR

This study finds that a significant number of ME/CFS patients report voice and speech abnormalities, suggesting a need for further research into these symptoms.

## Contribution

The study is the first to systematically investigate voice and speech abnormalities in ME/CFS patients using qualitative survey data.

## Key findings

- 38 mentions of voice or speech changes were found in 28 unique survey responses (9.27%).
- Voice and speech abnormalities were reported without being prompted as specific symptoms.
- More research is needed to understand the implications of these anomalies in ME/CFS.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) may report abnormalities in voice and speech; however, no formal research has been conducted in this area. Methods: An online mixed-methods survey was completed by 685 people with ME/CFS. A total of 302 respondents completed the qualitative component (44.09%). Questions assessed disease experience with ME/CFS and post-exertional malaise without prompting on specific symptoms. Within the qualitative results, a search of the terms “speech, voice,” “words,” and “speak” was conducted. Results: Excluding neurocognitive associations, colloquial phrases, and “speech therapy,” there were 38 mentions of the terms in the context of voice or speech changes across 28 unique qualitative survey responses (9.27%). Conclusions: A notable portion of respondents reported voice or speech changes when responding to open-ended qualitative questions about their disease experience. More research is needed regarding the implications of voice and speech anomalies in ME/CFS pathology and disease monitoring.