Most common language problems after a stroke

Aphasia

Language difficulties are common in people who've had strokes. Stroke victims may have trouble speaking or understanding speech, a problem known as aphasia.

Aphasia can take many forms:

• Anomic aphasia: difficulty naming objects or places
• Conduction aphasia: somewhat normal speech, but the person can't repeat what another person has said
• Expressive or Broca's aphasia: thoughts can't be expressed at all
• Fluent aphasia: speech may sound normal, but incorrect words and sounds are substituted
• Nonfluent aphasia: speech is slow and difficult, and words are often left out
• Global aphasia: difficulty with all language functions
• Receptive or Wernicke's aphasia: sounds are heard but not understood

Other common language problems

Other common language difficulties include:

• speech apraxia: difficulty planning the physical movements necessary for speech
• dysarthria: difficulty or inability articulating speech
• writing impairment: which also includes difficulty reading

What you can do to help a stroke victim with language problems

• Consult a speech therapist. A therapist will help a stroke victim relearn language skills, and she can help you come up with strategies for communicating.
• Don't yell. Speak in a normal voice.
• Avoid slang. Use simple words and short sentences.
• Try using gestures. Point at objects, or make picture cards.
• "Jump start" his communication. If he's having a hard time remembering a word or phrase, you can sometimes help get his speech going by making the first sound of a word. But first give him some extra time to get the words out.
• Acknowledge that this is a frustrating and difficult situation for both of you. If you need to take a break, give yourself a short time-out.
• Keep your sense of humor. Although the person in your care may have a hard time understanding abstract jokes, you can defuse a lot of frustration simply by laughing -- as long as he knows that you're laughing with him, not at him.