What it is
Stammering is not caused by anything a parent has done and is not linked to intelligence.
Speech and language therapy can help children and adults. Support for confidence and anxiety can also make a difference.
Common signs
- Repeating sounds or syllables
- Stretching out sounds
- Words getting stuck
- Tension in the face or body when speaking
- Avoiding certain words or situations
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment by a speech and language therapist
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Speech and language therapy reports
- School support plans
Questions to ask your doctor
- Will my child grow out of it?
- Is speech therapy recommended now?
- How can we support speaking at home?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden stammering or difficulty speaking in an adult, especially with weakness or a drooping face: call 112
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.