Language impairment; Impairment of speech; Inability to speak; Aphasia; Dysarthria; Slurred speech; Dysphonia voice disorders
For dysarthria, speaking slowly and using hand gestures are recommended. Family and friends need to provide plenty of time for those with the disorder to express themselves. Stop the use of medications that are causing the problem, if possible. Minimize the use of alcohol.
For aphasia, family members may need to provide frequent orientation reminders, such as the day of the week. Disorientation and confusion often occur with aphasia. Often, people assume that patients with aphasia are incompetent. But patients and caregivers can sometimes learn nonverbal ways of communicating.
Recognition and treatment of depression is also important for people with severe speech and language disorders.
It's important to maintain a relaxed, calm environment and keep external stimuli to a minimum.
Frustration, profanity, and depression are typical responses in people with aphasia.
Contact your health care provider if:
Unless the problems have developed after an emergency event, the health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. The medical history may require the assistance of family or friends.
Medical history questions documenting speech impairment may include the following:
The physical examination will include a detailed evaluation of brain function.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:
The health care provider may refer you to a speech and language therapist or social worker.
Swanberg MM, Nasreddine ZS, Mendez MF, Cummings JL. Speech and Language. In: Goetz, CG, ed. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 6.