Understanding Stroke and the Role of Speech Therapy in Recovery

Every year, various individuals undergo a stroke, which is a sudden interruption in the blood flow to the brain. While some recover fully, many are left with long-term effects, particularly on their ability to communicate. For these individuals, speech therapy becomes a crucial part of the rehabilitation process.

Therefore, what is a stroke? A stroke occurs when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes. In general, there are two forms of strokes:

1. Ischemic stroke → Due to blockage in an artery 

2. Hemorrhagic stroke → Due to a blood vessel leakage or burst within the brain.

In addition to those two forms of strokes, a third type, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) is temporary stroke but could be a warning sign of future risk. Finally, although strokes can affect different parts of the brain, and depending on the area impacted, a person may experience a range of challenges such as communication challenges. 

After a stroke, patients may struggle with:

1. Aphasia: Difficulty with speaking, understanding, reading, or writing. It occurs when the stroke affects the language centers of the brain, usually in the left hemisphere.

2. Dysarthria: Weakness or lack of coordination in the muscles used for speech, leading to slurred or slow speech.

3. Apraxia of speech: Difficulty in planning and coordinating the movements needed for speech, even though the muscles themselves are not weak.

4. Cognitive-communication disorders: Problems with attention, memory, problem-solving, or organizing thoughts for communication

Now, how can speech therapy support stroke survivors? 

1. Improving language skills

1. Naming objects

2. Forming sentences 

3. Understanding spoken or written language

4. Using alternative forms of communication (e.g., gestures, communication boards) 

2. Strengthening speech muscles 

1. Breath control 

2. Mouth, tongue, and lip movements 

3. Speech clarity and volume 

3. Enhancing cognitive-communication 

1. Strategies to stay on topic

2. Organization of thoughts 

3. Compensatory tools (e.g., notebooks or phone apps)

In conclusion, communication is central to our relationships and independence. For stroke survivors, the path to regaining speech can be emotional and challenging. However, with the support of speech therapy, many rebuild their ability to express themselves and reconnect with the world around them.

Author: Nayeli Dominguez M.S., CF-SLP