Aphasia

What is aphasia?

Aphasia (or dysphasia) is the general term used to describe a difficulty with comprehension or expression of language.

How do I know if I have aphasia?

You may experience difficulties with:

• Understanding what others are saying
• Thinking of names/ people
• Formulating sentences
• Writing and knowing what to write
• Reading

Sometimes it might be difficult to understand why other people can’t understand you.

What causes aphasia?

Brain tumours can cause difficulties with your communication. Your symptoms may differ depending on the type, location, and grade of the brain tumour.

How is aphasia treated?

If you have a difficulty communicating you will be seen by a Speech and Language Therapist. They will provide advice and support to help you and your family with your communication.

How can other people support communication

• Use simple language and talk slowly e.g. ‘do you want a drink?’
• Use gesture, e.g. pointing, showing
• Draw and write down key words e.g. ‘drink?’
• Provide options e. ‘tea’ or ‘coffee’

Other strategies to help

• Face the person you are speaking to.
• Reduce background noise.
• Talk about familiar things, e.g. hobbies
• Allow plenty of time
• Take turns to speak so that only one person at a time is speaking.

Other sources of information

For more detailed information on how to support communication please watch this video from our Speech and Language Therapy Team or from The Brain Charity