brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Aphasia
Treatment of Aphasia
Treatment of the cause Speech therapy Use of communication devices Treating certain causes of aphasia can be very effective. For example, if a tumor causes swelling in the brain, corticosteroids can reduce the swelling and improve language function. Aphasia due to some other causes (such as a stroke) may lessen more slowly or only partially when the cause is treated. Aphasia can help people who develop aphasia after brain damage due to disorders that do not cause progressive damage. Therapy is usually started as soon as people are able to participate. The sooner therapy is started, the more effective it is, but it is helpful even when started late. If people with aphasia do not recover basic language skills, they may be able to communicate using a book or a communication device, such as a board with pictures or symbols of often-used words or daily activities or a computer-based device with a keyboard and message display. Family members and other people who care for a person with aphasia can become frustrated. Remembering that aphasia is a physical disorder and that a person has little control over it can help. 