Speech impairment (adult)

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Brain

Overview

Treatment

Speech impairment (adult)

Alternative Names:

Language impairment; Impairment of speech; Inability to speak; Aphasia; Dysarthria; Slurred speech; Dysphasia
Home Care:

For dysarthria, speaking slowly is encouraged, and the use of hand gestures, when necessary, is recommended. Family and friends need to provide ample time for those afflicted with the disorder to express themselves. Medications that are causing the problem should be stopped, if possible. Use of alcohol should be minimized.

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For aphasia, family members may need to provide frequent orientation reminders, such as what day it is, because disorientation and confusion often follow the onset of aphasia.

A relaxed, calm environment where external stimuli are kept to a minimum is important.

Speak in a normal tone of voice (this condition is not a hearing or emotional problem), use simple phrases to avoid misunderstanding, and don't assume that the affected person understands. Frustration, profanity, and depression are typical responses in people suffering from aphasia.

Provide communication aids, if possible, depending on the particular person and condition.

Call your health care provider if:

If impairment or loss of communication comes on suddenly, call your health care provider immediately.
If there is any unexplained impairment of speech or written language, call your provider.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The health care provider will obtain a medical history and will 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: