What it is
How it affects someone depends on which part of the brain is damaged and how much.
Speech and language therapy is the main treatment. Many people improve, especially in the first months, and communication aids and support from family help a great deal.
Common signs
- Struggling to find the right word, or using the wrong word
- Speaking in short or jumbled sentences
- Difficulty following conversation
- Problems reading, writing or with numbers
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment by a speech and language therapist
- A brain scan to find the cause, such as a stroke
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Brain scan reports
- Speech and language therapy assessments and progress notes
- Discharge letters after a stroke or injury
- A communication passport or summary for new carers
Questions to ask your doctor
- How much therapy will be available, and for how long?
- Which communication aids could help?
- How can family members best help with conversation?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding, face drooping or arm weakness: call 112 (possible stroke)
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.