Aphasia: Understanding Language Impairment

     Aphasia is a language disorder resulting from brain damage, commonly caused by stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic), head injury, or other conditions affecting language centers. This leads to difficulties in communication and language use, impacting spoken interaction, comprehension, reading, and writing.

Causes of Aphasia

Aphasia results from damage to the brain regions controlling language function, including:

• Brain diseases: Such as hemorrhagic/ischemic stroke, tumors, brain infections, or dementia.

• Traumatic brain injury: Due to accidents.

• Brain surgery: Previous surgical interventions.

Symptoms of Aphasia

Aphasia symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of brain damage. Common manifestations include:

• Inability to speak or communicate, even non-verbally.

• Difficulty comprehending spoken language; providing irrelevant responses.

• Slurred speech (dysarthria).

• Word-finding difficulties (anomia).

• Inability to express needs, name objects, or recall family members' names.

• Difficulty following commands.

• Inability to repeat words or phrases.

• Impaired movement of speech organs (mouth, tongue, jaw).

Preventing Aphasia

Preventing aphasia involves maintaining brain health through these measures:

• Regular exercise.

• Consuming a diet low in sodium and fat.

• Abstaining from smoking.

• Consuming alcohol in moderation and only as necessary.

• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Undergoing regular annual health check-ups.

• Individuals with diabetes or circulatory system issues should consistently follow medical advice.

• If a hemorrhagic stroke is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. Similarly, if cardiac arrhythmia is present, consult a physician for treatment.

If symptoms suggestive of hemorrhagic stroke or cardiac arrhythmia arise, seek immediate medical attention.

Revised:

August 31, 2022