What it is
It is different from aphasia, which affects language itself, though both can happen together after a stroke.
Speech and language therapy helps people speak more clearly and find other ways to communicate, such as communication aids.
Common signs
- Slurred, nasal or breathy speech
- Speaking too slowly, quickly or quietly
- Difficulty moving the tongue and lips
- Difficulty swallowing
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment by a speech and language therapist
- Tests and scans to find the cause, such as an MRI
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Speech and language therapy assessments
- Neurology letters and scan reports
- Swallowing assessments
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is causing the speech problem?
- What therapy and communication aids are available?
- Is swallowing safe?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden slurred speech with face drooping or arm weakness: call 112, it may be a 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.