Speech Impairment (Adult)
Alternate Names : Aphasia, Dysarthria, Dysphasia, Impairment of Speech, Inability to Speak, Language Impairment, Slurred Speech
Definition Speech impairment can be any of several speech problems, particularly the following:
- Dysarthria is difficult, poorly articulated speech, such as slurring.
- Aphasia is impaired expression or comprehension of written or spoken language.
Dysarthria is occasionally confused with aphasia. It is important to distinguish between a difficulty in articulation of words versus a problem with the production of language, as these have different causes.
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Overview & Considerations
DYSARTHRIA
Dysarthria is generally apparent in daily conversation where there is difficulty expressing certain sounds or words. This condition may be caused by taking excess medications such as narcotics, phenytoin, or carbamazepine. Alcohol intoxication causes dysarthria. Some former severe alcoholics who have developed brain damage (Korsakoff syndrome) due to drinking may have continued problems with language, even after years of sobriety.
Degenerative neurological disorders affecting the cerebellum or brainstem can also cause dysarthria. Stroke that affects brainstem or cerebellar regions can also cause dysarthria.
APHASIA
Aphasia is loss of communication skills previously learned and commonly occurs following strokes or in people with brain tumors or degenerative diseases that affect the language areas of the brain. This term does not apply to children who have never developed communication skills.
In some cases of aphasia, the problem eventually resolves itself, but in others the condition is irreversible.
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