SLPs frequently treat speech disorders caused by conditions such as:
- Stroke
- Injuries to the brain (i.e., repetitive or traumatic injuries)
- Tumors
- Problems with development or other congenital disabilities
- Lack of oxygen to the brain as a result of an injury, disease, or birth defect
- Alzheimer’s disease, or other forms of dementia, and Parkinson’s disease
Speech therapists assist patients in improving their speaking abilities by increasing the loudness or quality of their voice. They also help patients retrain cognitive skills such as remembering and searching for words to improve listening skills.
To preserve the pleasures of eating, speech therapy is used to improve chewing and swallowing.