Adult speech impairment includes any symptom that causes an adult to have difficulty with vocal communication. Such problems may include slurred, slowed, hoarse, stuttered, or rapid speech. Other symptoms may include stiff facial muscles, drooling, poor accessibility of words, and sudden contraction of vocal muscles.
If you experience a sudden onset of speech impairment, seek medical care right away. This may indicate a serious underlying condition.
Speech impairments may be present in different forms. Adult-impaired speech is a symptom of several different speech disorders. They include:
Speech impairment can occur suddenly or can gradually progress. Each speech impairment type has a different cause, which is what sets it apart.
This is abnormal brain functioning. Though scientists are not sure, it is believed this condition originates in the basal ganglia (part of the brain that controls muscle movement in the body).
Brain damage from a stroke or blood clot is a common cause of aphasia. Other causes include:
Degenerative muscle and motor conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and Parkinsonâs disease may cause this condition. Other causes may include:
If there is a sudden onset of impaired speech or any impairment that you cannot readily explain, seek medical assistance right away. Though rare, such situations may be due to a life-threatening condition, such as a stroke.
The treatment of speech impairment will depend on the cause. Usually, it will involve medical and home care treatment.
Speech impairment can be very trying. It is paramount for family members and loved ones to be patient. Family members should help with communication when possible. Home care options may differ depending on the type of speech impairment.
Always discuss home treatments with your doctor before beginning them.
Using electronic devices that translate typed messages into verbal communication may ease some frustration associated with spasmodic dysphonia.
Individuals with aphasia often have confusion. Family members can orient the individual several times daily with time and place to help decrease confusion. Limit the amount of external stimuliâan overload of stimuli can potentially worsen confusion. Speak in short, simple sentences for easy comprehension.
An individual with aphasia should carry an identification card with the name of his or her disorder. The person should also have emergency contact information in his or her pocket at all times.
Family members should speak slowly and use nonverbal cues because individuals with dysarthria may process verbal language at a slow rate. Allow enough time for the speech-impaired individual to respond to questions or comments. Provide tools to aid in communication. A pen and paper is a common means of communication.
Limit the use of your vocal cords. This will provide time for your voice to heal or prevent further damage. Avoid caffeine and other drugs that may irritate the vocal cords.
Your physician may take a complete medical history and evaluate your symptoms. To diagnose the type of speech impairment and the cause, your doctor may conduct several different tests including:
Your doctor also may ask a series of questions to hear your speech. These questions can also help determine your level of comprehension and whether the condition is only affecting the vocal cords, or if it is also affecting your brain.
Your doctor may refer you to a speech therapist regardless of the type of speech impairment. Working with a speech therapist helps strengthen the vocals cords, improve articulation, and increase control of the vocal muscles.
Additionally, individuals with spasmodic dysphonia may undergo botulinum toxin injections into their vocal cords to prevent spasms. Rarely, individuals with vocal disorders may need surgery to remove any vocal cord growths.
Unless your impairment is caused by overuse or a virus, it is not likely to remedy itself. If you leave speech impairment untreated, your speech and underlying condition may likely worsen. This is why quick diagnosis is important to allow prompt treatment.
A few prevention methods can reduce your risk of developing impaired speech, as many impairments result from trauma. Some lifestyle habits you can adopt to help prevent the onset of impaired speech include:
Source: http://www.healthline.com
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