Reasons for a Visit to a Speech Pathologist

speech pathologist Houston, TX

Visits to a speech pathologist can be for different reasons–to treat a speech disorder, like stutter, to recover lost function after a stroke or to diagnose and treat issues related to the tongue. Speech is important for communication, so people who have problems with expressing themselves will benefit immensely from undergoing speech therapy. This article includes some of the reasons it may be helpful to visit a speech pathologist.

Why visit a speech pathologist?

Swallowing disorders

In addition to improving speech, a speech pathologist can also treat swallowing disorders, or dysphasia. Both children and adults who find it difficult to swallow can benefit from a visit to the speech pathologist because these specialists have an understanding of how the mouth and throat work together.

To diagnose the issue accurately, a swallowing test will be done. Patients will get food to swallow, and the pathologist will monitor how the food moves through the mouth and throat through x-ray technology. The patient will then learn about the best way to manage the issue from the healthcare provider based on their observations. For instance, they may suggest using pills with pudding or yogurt instead of liquids. The pathologist might make a referral for further evaluation and treatment if necessary.

Speech issues in children

Children hone their speaking skills from hearing adults and nearby voices. At first, they might imitate words and voices they hear as they learn to pronounce the words correctly. However, children who have difficulty with correct speech patterns need to undergo treatment as soon as possible. Children with speech problems who start speech therapy before reaching age five often have a much more positive result than those who begin treatment later in life. Children can visit the speech pathologist for the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like:

  • Articulation disorders
  • Autism
  • Hearing impairment
  • Congenital disabilities such as a cleft palate
  • Issues with oral-motor reflexes
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Cognitive delays
  • Weak oral or tongue muscles

If a child has a problem understanding new words, expressing themself or is unable to communicate properly, parents must take them to the speech pathologist as soon as possible.

Oral or throat problems in adults

Adults may experience problems with speech and swallowing for different reasons, including Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease) or multiple sclerosis. Speech therapy can assist a patient diagnosed with a condition that impairs speech through proactive measures, like strengthening the throat and mouth muscles and learning to use the muscles that are functional instead of those that are not working properly.

Adults who move to another country and have a thick accent from their native language can also undergo speech therapy. They can learn to adjust their mouth and palate to pronounce difficult words correctly since different languages utilize different areas of the mouth and tongue.

In summary

If you or a loved one is dealing with speech difficulties, swallowing problems or communication issues, pay a visit to the speech pathologist. They can help diagnose and treat any form of conditions related to the throat and mouth.

Get more information here: https://smalltalktherapyservices.com or call Small Talk Therapy Services at (713) 471-9086

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