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What Is Apraxia Of Speech?

If the area of the brain that controls speech and language is damaged, then an individual’s speech and language skills will be affected.  Apraxia of speech prevents a person to say, consistently and correctly, what they mean.  Developmental apraxia of speech occurs mainly in children and is often present from birth.  Acquired apraxia of speech is mostly present in adults and is often the result of injury.  The severity and prognosis of this type of apraxia will depend upon the type, extent and location of the injury to the brain as well as the age of the individual involved. One of the most common symptoms of apraxia of speech is an inability to consistently string together sounds and syllables to make rational words.  Individuals suffering from apraxia of speech may also have varying rhythms and stresses to their speech.  Children with developmental apraxia of speech may also have trouble using language, including reading, writing, spelling and/or listening in addition to speaking.  Some children will be able to understand language much more efficiently than they can actually use it. For most individuals, speech language therapy will help improve their speech and use of language.  If apraxia of speech is so severe that verbal communication is impossible, a speech language therapist will be able to create another means of communication for the individual.  Sign language, charts and computer programmes may all be options for other means of communication. If you feel we have left anything out and would like to add to this article, please let us know: info@medical-solutions.co.za