How
do I know if I have a Speech-Language problem?
What
happens during the evaluation?
Who
will get the evaluation report?
Who
performs this evaluation?
How do I know if I have a Speech-Language problem?
Developing and maintaining effective speech and language skills is a
complex process that is dependent on the functioning of the brain as well
as specific nerves and muscles. When a child or adult experiences difficulty
with speech or language such as understanding words, expressing oneself
in words, reading or writing, a speech-language pathologist is available
to assess the problem area and prescribe a treatment plan.
In children, difficulties in developing age-appropriate speech and language
skills may relate to a variety of causes, including hearing problems,
delayed development, neurological impairment or structural changes such
as cleft lip and palate. In both children and adults, illness such as
stroke and cancer and injury such as traumatic brain injury and vocal
cord nodules, may result in difficulty with speech, voicing, language
or the thinking skills that underlie effective communication.
What happens during the
evaluation?
During the initial evaluation, the speech language pathologist will
obtain a detailed history of the problem from the individual or a family
member. A hearing screening may be completed. At times, the child or adult
is referred for formal hearing assessment. Specific tests will be administered
to determine the nature of the problem and the best treatment approach
to improve speech, voice, language skills or the thinking and memory skills
that are critical for appropriate and effective communication. A tape
recording or video recording may be made to assist with the evaluation.
If the communication problem relates to the voice, an evaluation of
breathing patterns and vocal cord movement will be completed. In young
children, play will be used to assess the child's current status in understanding
and using speech and language. For the adult with a communication problem
that affects language usage listening, speaking, reading and writing will
be tested. Evaluation times vary from 1 to 2 hours or more. Your speech-language
pathologist will let you know if additional testing time is needed.
Who will get the evaluation
report?
A written report summarizing findings and recommendations will be sent
to your physician and, if you request, to teachers or other professionals.
Who performs this evaluation?
Speech-language pathologists in the Department of Otolaryngology and Physical
Medicine and Rehabilitation are certified by the American Speech Language
and Hearing Association. Each department maintains areas of specialization.
In Otolaryngology, areas of specialization include head and neck cancer,
laryngeal and voice disorders, cochlear implant and hearing impairment,
and developmental language and speech disorders. In Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation, areas of specialization include neurological disorders
such as stroke, head injury, brain tumor and degenerative disease, augmentive
and alternative communication, and developmental language and speech disorders.
This
information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about
this information or your medical condition.