Stuttering appears during childhood as a result of several factors and, in some cases, can persist into adulthood.
Involuntary interruptions in the flow of speech, including repetitions of sounds, syllables or words, prolongations of sounds and blocks. This is what stuttering, the popular name for dysphemia, is called. It is a disorder of speech fluency that affects approximately 10 million people in Brazil, according to the Brazilian Fluency Institute (IBF).
It is also worth noting that these interruptions can be accompanied by muscle tension and secondary behaviors, such as blinking or facial movements, explains Diogo Haddad, a neurologist at Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz.
Causes of the condition
Stuttering can be caused by a variety of factors, making it a complex condition. According to the neurologist, the causes include genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
“The condition is most common in children, especially between the ages of 2 and 6, a critical period for language development. Studies indicate that stuttering affects about 5% of children, with a higher prevalence in boys than girls. Although many cases resolve spontaneously, about 1% of the adult population continues to stutter,” explains the doctor.
Impacts on daily life
Stuttering can be divided into different levels of severity, ranging from mild to severe. “The classification is based on the frequency and intensity of the disfluencies, as well as the emotional and behavioral impact on the individual,” says Diogo.
The expert also emphasizes that stuttering can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and autonomy, interfering with effective communication and leading to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
“In severe cases, it can limit educational and professional opportunities, as well as negatively impact social relationships and participation in daily activities,” says the doctor. For him, public awareness of stuttering can help reduce the stigma associated with the condition and promote a more inclusive environment for those who live with stuttering.
After all, is there a cure for stuttering?
There is currently no cure for stuttering, but there are effective treatments that can help manage and reduce symptoms. Treatment is usually multidisciplinary, involving speech therapists, psychologists, and in some cases, neurologists.
“Therapeutic approaches include fluency techniques, stuttering modification, cognitive behavioral therapy, and in some cases, the use of electronic devices that aid in fluency,” Diogo says.
According to the specialist, treatment is indicated especially when stuttering persists beyond childhood, causes significant suffering or interferes with daily activities and communication. “Early intervention is essential to maximize therapeutic results,” he emphasizes.
Furthermore, ongoing research is essential to develop new interventions and improve existing ones. “The understanding and support of family, friends and educators are essential to the success of treatment,” concludes the neurologist.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
