$Unique_ID{BRK01338}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What is Aphasia?}
$Subject{aphasia stroke talking central nervous system stroke speak language
brain communicate speaking conversations speech strokes talk speaking
communicating conversation}
$Volume{F-1}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is Aphasia?


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QUESTION:  We visited mother recently after she had a mild stroke.  She is
doing well now, but still can't seem to speak, although she tries and can make
sounds.  It is just that they don't make any sense.  The doctor calls this
"aphasia" and I would like to know what that means, and what we as a family
can do to help?  Would you please offer us your advice?

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ANSWER:  Aphasia is the loss of language ability after a brain injury or
stroke.  There are several different kinds of aphasia, and they affect
different parts of the language process.  Some people with aphasia may be
unable to say the words they want to say.  Other people may not know the words
they want, although the words are familiar ones.  For instance, they may not
be able to say the name of a family member, although they know and recognize
the family member.  Some with aphasia are unable to communicate in sentences,
speaking instead in a sort of gibberish.  Others who have aphasia suffer
difficulties in understanding what is said to them.  Instead of hearing
coherent sentences, they hear a string of unrelated syllables.  Aphasia also
can affect the ability to make sense from the words on a printed page.
     There are few things more frustrating than to be unable to communicate
with those around us.  Patience and support from those around are the best
allies of a person who has aphasia.  Remember that though mother has aphasia,
she can probably understand much more than she can communicate.  Be careful to
include her in all your conversations, even if she cannot seem to communicate
or participate.  Prompt treatment by a specialist in speech, language and
hearing is very important to helping the person who has aphasia.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.