How do you know if you’re getting aphasia?

Aphasia is a communication disorder that results from damage or injury to language parts of the brain. It’s more common in older adults, particularly those who have had a stroke.

Aphasia gets in the way of a person’s ability to use or understand words. However, intelligence is usually preserved. The severity and scope of the problems depend on the extent of damage and the area of the brain that’s affected.

Recognizing the signs of aphasia can be the first step towards getting a diagnosis and starting a treatment plan. Here are some signs that you or a loved one might be developing aphasia:

Difficulty with Speech: This is often the most noticeable symptom. A person with aphasia may struggle to find the right words, use strange or inappropriate words in conversation, or create sentences that don’t make sense.

Trouble Understanding Speech: People with aphasia may have difficulty understanding what others are saying. This can range from not understanding complex sentences to being unable to comprehend any speech at all.

Problems with Reading and Writing: Aphasia can make it hard to read a book, understand an email, write a letter, or even sign your name.

Issues with Numbers and Calculations: Some people with aphasia have trouble with numbers, including counting, adding and subtracting, telling time, or dialing phone numbers.

Changes in Conversation: People with aphasia may speak in short phrases that are hard or impossible to understand. They may omit smaller words like “is” or “the.” They may also put sentences together incorrectly.

Repetition of Words or Phrases: Some people with aphasia repeat words or phrases over and over again. This can occur during both speech and writing.

Using Non-verbal Communication: As speaking becomes more difficult, some people with aphasia may rely more on non-verbal communication, such as pointing, gesturing, or drawing.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can conduct tests to determine if aphasia is present, and if so, recommend a course of treatment.

Treatment for aphasia often involves speech and language therapy, and can significantly improve communication skills. Remember, early detection and intervention can make a big difference in recovery and quality of life.