Many people have met children who have needed some help in learning how to talk. After some speech therapy they are usually ready to conquer the world with no problems. However, did you know that there are also speech pathologists who specifically help adults? Sometimes adults suffer traumatic experiences such as a heart attack, cancer, car accident, or stroke where they lost parts of their speech. This can be a very ostracizing experience. It can be very frustrating to not be able to express yourself or your needs, especially when you have been able to do so freely your entire life. There are several different ways that adults can be affected by speech problems. These include but are not limited to:
Expressive Speech Problems. This type of speech problem, often called expressive aphasia, is when an individual knows what they want to say, but just cannot find the right words to do so. For example, a cancer patient with a growing brain tumor may find it increasingly difficult to explain to others what they need or want. This can be very difficult for caregivers, due to the fact that they will likely be trying to guess what the individual is needing, instead of knowing exactly what they can do to help. Patience is required to overcome expressive aphasia, and a speech pathologist may be able to regain some words or slow down the process.
Receptive Speech Problems. Receptive speech problems, or receptive aphasia, is when an individual can express themselves just fine, but they may not understand what is said to them. When asked if they would like to go shopping, they may not understand the word 'shopping' or the fact that someone is inviting them somewhere. Receptive speech problems can be trying for clients and caregivers alike, since it may take a few tries before the individual understands what is being asked of them.
Global Aphasia. Global aphasia is something that happens in moments of emergency such as during a stroke or heart attack. A client may be unable to speak or understand words, which can be quite frightening to those around them. While many words may be recovered after the initial incident, some may only come back through speech therapy. If you feel that a loved one is experiencing global aphasia, take them to the hospital.
In summary, speech pathologists can help in a wide variety of circumstances when given the opportunity. If you or a loved one is searching for a speech pathologist to help with speech problems, turn to a clinic like Eastern Carolina Ear Nose & Throat-Head today.
