In this section, we will be discussing Acquired Aphasia. This means that the individual has a developed, mature language system (i.e. unlike a developmental disorder) before the medical situation that causes the language impairment. Aphasia happens when the parts of the brain responsible for language are damaged. This can occur suddenly or gradually, depending on the cause.
Please note that Aphasia may also be caused by a degenerative brain disease (i.e. Frontotemporal Dementia / Primary Progressive Aphasia). Click here to read about Primary Progressive Aphasia.
Aphasia can be a frustrating communication disorder, as it impacts a person’s ability to access the thoughts, feelings, ideas and memories that they have. Aphasia, in and of itself, does not mean there is any change in a person’s intellect or memory. This can be confusing if the person says “I don’t know” or “I can’t remember”. Many people with aphasia will communicate, “I know what I want to say, I just can’t get it out.” It’s helpful to think, therefore, of aphasia as an “access” issue.
Each person’s experience is different depending on how much and which part of the brain is affected.
The way aphasia shows up varies from person to person. Some people have trouble finding words. Others may have trouble understanding what’s said. This is highly dependent on the location and extent of the injury as well as the presence of other impairments (i.e. vision, hemiparesis, etc.)
Aphasia can be classified as “fluent” or “nonfluent”, as well as types which reflect the specific language strengths and challenges.
You can learn more about different types of aphasia in our Glossary of Terms.
While a person with aphasia may be screened by physicians and other healthcare professionals, a speech-language pathologist will use special tests to diagnose aphasia and any accompanying speech (apraxia, dysarthria) and/or swallowing (dysphagia) impairments.
You can learn more about different types of aphasia in our Glossary of Terms.
Involving the family in this initial assessment and throughout the therapy program is really important. Teaching the care team and advocating for communicative rights and access will also be addressed during this initial encounter.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. This can happen due to a blockage or a burst blood vessel. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes, leading to potential brain damage, disability, and even death.
This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain, reducing blood flow.
This type occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Causes include high blood pressure, aneurysms, or trauma.
A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often called a “mini-stroke.” Symptoms are similar to a stroke but usually last only a few minutes and don’t cause permanent damage. However, a TIA is a warning sign of a possible future stroke.
You can learn more about different types of strokes at www.stroke.org.
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke can make a difference. They say “Time is Brain” because getting medical attention can be important in the outcome of the stroke.
You can learn more about recognizing a stroke at www.stroke.org.
Treatment is highly individualized and will address communication challenges, offer communication supports, and training for family/care partners. Providing exercises to practice talking, understanding, reading, and writing is as important as practicing in real-life situations.
Recovery often continues over months and years. The brain can change and heal — this is called neuroplasticity. Progress is possible!
Aphasia can be frustrating and isolating. It’s normal to feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. But you are not alone.
